GRAIN VALLEY, MO – Monday evening bore witness to a tragic murder-suicide involving 31-year-old Randal Gilmore and his wife, 33-year-old Shasta Gilmore, at Milestone Academy. The Grain Valley Police Department has determined Randal as the suspect and Shasta as the victim. The couple’s children, other daycare attendees, and staff awaiting to be picked up by parents or guardians witnessed the incident, which occurred shortly before the daycare’s 6 p.m. closing time.
The policing authority expressed deep sympathy for the bereft children, the family of the deceased couple, any witnesses, and the entire Milestone Academy community in these trying times. Milestone Academy remained closed on Tuesday following the murder-suicide but is set to resume operations on Wednesday, Nov. 15. To help the public cope with the tragic event, counselors from the Grain Valley School District will be available to provide aid.
Grain Valley Police Chief Ed Turner shared his heartfelt sorrow over the violent incident, particularly emphasizing the welfare of the Gilmore children. “We are continuing to keep the children in our thoughts and prayers,” Turner said.
Keeping in tune with their dedication to offering service to those entangled in troubled relationships, Turner added that their department is ready to assist anyone requiring aid. They will partner with area partners to offer wrap-around services to the children, family, and community in the aftermath of the shocking incident, he said. In a Facebook post, the directors and owners of Milestone Academy reassured the public that the children who attend the center are safe with their family.