A 17-year-old from St. Paul, Maurice Antonio Gaynor Jr., is facing adult charges in connection to the fatal shooting of 16-year-old Kalven Sin Suy from Savage in February. Gaynor is accused of second-degree murder and first-degree aggravated robbery.
Gaynor appeared in court on Wednesday, March 20, where his bail was set at $1,000,000 with no conditions. According to a criminal complaint, the incident unfolded when St. Paul police responded to a report of a shooting at an address near Western Ave. North and Topping Street. Sin Suy was found with a gunshot wound to the abdomen and was rushed to the hospital in critical condition.
Investigations revealed that Sin Suy had arranged to meet someone known as “50” in the early hours of the morning. His girlfriend dropped him off at the designated location, after which he contacted her, stating that he had been shot. Sin Suy was found with a red and white bag from a Bath and Body Works store, which he had taken with him to the meeting.
Subsequent examination of Sin Suy’s phone revealed discussions with a contact labeled “50” regarding the sale of firearms and narcotics. Further analysis identified “50” as Maurice Antonio Gaynor Jr. Police executed search warrants at locations associated with Gaynor Jr., leading to his arrest.
During questioning, Gaynor Jr. initially denied knowing the victim but later admitted to being acquainted with him under a different name. He offered no further explanation.
Gaynor Jr.’s criminal record includes prior convictions for aggravated robbery and assault, both as a juvenile and as an adult. The investigation also uncovered firearms, including one with an obliterated serial number, commonly known as a “ghost gun,” linking Gaynor Jr. to the crime scene.
The case underscores the tragic consequences of youth involvement in criminal activities and highlights the importance of addressing underlying issues to prevent further harm to individuals and communities.
