02/01/1994 - Report #236 - Victim: Dennis Eugene Covert - Location: Ferguson, MO

MCS Report #236

Classification: Homicide

Requesting Agency: Ferguson Police Department

Date of Activation: 02/01/1994

Commander and Department: Sgt. Charles Metzner, St. Louis Metropolitan PD

Deputy Report Officer and Department: Lt. Tony Umbertino, Charlack PD

Victim: Dennis Eugene Covert

Suspects: Willie B. Stewart & Ronald K. Wilder

The Ferguson Police Department requested the assistance of the Major Case Squad in investigating the death of Dennis Covert. At approximately 11:47am, police officers responded to The Pawn Center (220 N Florissant Road) for a report of holdup robbery that had just occurred. When officers arrived on scene, they located Dennis Covert (age 45) lying on the floor behind the jewelry counter. He had been shot and was pronounced dead on scene.

As a result of this investigation, the following criminal charges were issued in connection with Dennis’ death:

  • Willie Stewart (age 22) - Murder 1st Degree, Robbery 1st Degree, and Armed Criminal Action. No-bond warrant.

  • Ronald Wilder (age 30) - Murder 1st Degree, Robbery 1st Degree, and Armed Criminal Action. Bond $200,000.

PastKathy Effan