Five teens arrested for underage drinking at Sikeston house party

SIKESTON, Mo. -- Five teenagers were arrested Saturday after Sikeston police officers responded to a Sikes Street residence where minors were reportedly drinking.

According to a news release from the Sikeston Department of Public Safety, the owner of 805 Sikes St. came to the door as officers approached the home about 11:30 p.m.

Officers were allowed inside and several teenagers were found hiding in a bedroom and closet.

Full and empty containers of alcohol were also found near the pool area of the home.

After giving eight people a portable breath test, five were arrested on suspicion of illegal consumption and possession of alcohol. One of the teenagers was also arrested on suspicion of resisting arrest for fleeing from police upon their initial arrival.

"Police are still investigating how the teens obtained the alcohol and whether the homeowner was aware of the illegal party," said Sgt. Jim McMillen in the news release. "In last month's homicide investigation, we learned how these drinking parties can become deadly. Sikeston Public Safety will continue to actively confront these types of parties and those adults who contribute to this illegal behavior."

The fatality McMillen referred to was the July 24 death of 18-year-old Kendra Gray. Gray died after being struck by a vehicle leaving an underage drinking party in Sikeston.

Although a grand jury last week declined to charge Brianna M. Branson, 17, of Miner, Mo., with murder in connection with the death, the Sikeston Department of Public Safety continues to investigate it as one, the Standard Democrat reported.

"We still consider this as a murder investigation," said chief Drew Juden, director of the Sikeston Department of Public Safety.

Juden said anyone with information is encouraged to come forward.

"Murder investigations do not have a statute of limitations, so therefore, this case will always remain open," he said.

Pertinent Address:

805 Sikes St., Sikeston, MO