ST. CHARLES, Mo. — A makeshift memorial continues to grow in honor of 16-year-old Carter Bennett, whose tragic death has left friends and family heartbroken. The site, adorned with candles, flowers, and heartfelt messages, captures the essence of a boy deeply loved by those around him.
The memorial is located just a short distance from where Bennett was allegedly shot and killed by his mother, Krista Roy, in their home. Neighbors and friends have come together in grief, leaving tributes that speak to the warmth and kindness Carter brought into their lives. Natalie Black, a family friend whose home became a second refuge for Carter, described him as “like a son” to her family. Her daughter was in a relationship with him, and her stepson shared a close friendship with the teen.
“He was a part of everything we did as a family,” Black said, her voice filled with emotion. “We are all devastated by this loss. He brought so much joy into our lives.”
Authorities reported that Roy, 47, confessed to the shooting, claiming that she acted while Carter was asleep. According to police statements, she then attempted to take her own life before law enforcement discovered Carter’s body.
Detectives found that the tragedy unfolded after Roy had taken a firearm belonging to her ex-husband, intending ultimately for her and Carter to die. She reportedly expressed remorse, stating, “I would just do anything to change what happened. He didn’t deserve it at all,” according to Black.
In addition to his close relationships, Carter was known for his sense of humor and hard work. “He was just hilarious and so responsible,” Black recalled. Friends reported that he had been scheduled to work with her stepson the day of the incident, further raising alarm when he failed to show up.
Following the discovery of Carter’s body, Roy was hospitalized after a suicide attempt and later taken into custody. Prosecutors have charged her with first-degree murder and armed criminal action, citing her statements to detectives to support the charges.
As the community mourns, many wish to remember Carter for his vibrant spirit and positive impact on those he knew. His boxing coach, Jake Roberts, noted the transformation he witnessed in Carter at the St. Charles MMA gym. “He was shy at first, but he blossomed into someone who lit up every room,” Roberts said. “His dedication to the gym was remarkable, and it provided him an escape from his struggles.”
A candlelight vigil is planned for Saturday evening at the Bennett memorial site, allowing friends and loved ones to gather and reflect on Carter’s life.
Roy remains in custody at St. Charles County Jail with a bond set at $1 million. A psychological evaluation has been ordered as part of the ongoing legal proceedings.
As candles flicker and flowers continue to be placed at the memorial, the community’s love and support for Carter Bennett endure, a testament to the impact he made in his short life.