EDWARDSVILLE — Madison County Associate Judge Neil Schroeder handed down a guilty verdict of first-degree murder and guilty of two counts of contributing to the delinquency of a minor on Friday, Jan. 16, 2026, in the murder trial of Keith Sanders, 26, one of five Alton residents accused of shooting 13-year-old Ra’Niya Steward.
Steward was shot while standing on the porch of a home in the 900 block of Highland Avenue on Feb. 3, 2024. She was transported to St. Louis Children’s Hospital, where she died 10 days later.
Sanders faced two counts of first-degree murder and two counts of contributing to the criminal delinquency of a minor, all Class M felonies.
During the trial, Assistant State’s Attorney Michael Stewart described Sanders as a “shot-caller” and “someone you don’t say ‘no’ to,” alleging that Sanders ordered and helped plan the shooting.
In contrast, defense attorney Joslyn R. Sandifer argued that prosecutors failed to prove Sanders had more than minor involvement in the events leading to the shooting, attributing much of the blame to another individual, Colvin, and others.
On Monday, Sanders waived his right to a jury trial and requested a bench trial, which put the decision in the hands of Associate Judge Neil Schroeder.
First-Degree Murder convictions for fatal shooting of Ra’Niya Steward Guilty conviction Friday, Jan. 16, 2026
• Keith A. Sanders (D.O.B. 11/8/1999) of Alton, found guilty of first-degree murder and two counts of contributing to the criminal delinquency of a minor (Class M Felony Murder). Convicted following bench trial before Associate Judge Neil Schroeder. Will be sentenced later. The first-degree murder count is punishable by up to 75 years in prison, while the charges of contributing to the criminal delinquency of a minor are punishable by up to 30 years in prison. Guilty pleas Thursday, Jan. 15, 2026
• Vito K. Crowder (D.O.B. 9/17/2007) of Alton, pleaded guilty to first-degree murder. He faces up to 60 years in prison when he is sentenced later. As part of a plea agreement in exchange for his testimony, the charge was amended to remove a potential firearm sentencing enhancement. According to testimony, was a shooter.
• Dakota M. Perry (D.O.B. 4/4/2007) of Alton, pleaded guilty to first-degree murder. He faces up to 60 years in prison when he is sentenced later. As part of a plea agreement in exchange for his testimony, the charge was amended to remove a potential firearm sentencing enhancement. According to testimony, was a shooter.
• Alvin Perry III (D.O.B. 9/9/2004) of Alton, pleaded guilty to first-degree murder. Under the terms of a plea agreement in exchange for his testimony, he was sentenced to 23 years in prison. Evidence and testimony showed he was the driver of a vehicle. According to testimony, was a driver. Guilty plea July 17, 2025
• Raysean M. Colvin (D.O.B. 11/18/2004) of Alton, pleaded guilty to first-degree murder and received a 35-year prison sentence. According to testimony, provided guns used by shooters.
