East St. Louis, Illinois — Two teenagers are in custody after authorities say a targeted shooting spree involving members of the same family left five people dead and two others seriously injured across multiple locations in southern Illinois.
According to the Illinois State Police, the suspects, ages 15 and 16, were arrested on July 12 after officers stopped a vehicle near Frank Holten State Park, just outside East St. Louis.
Investigators say one of the teens was driving the vehicle when state troopers used a Precision Immobilization Technique (PIT) maneuver to safely bring it to a stop before taking both suspects into custody.
Police Say Family Members Were Targeted
During a news briefing, Illinois State Police Director Brendan Kelly said the violence unfolded at three different locations located within a few miles of one another.
Authorities believe the attacks specifically targeted members of the same family.
“At least seven members of the targeted family were shot at multiple locations in the East St. Louis area, and as of right now, five victims have been confirmed deceased,” Kelly said.
Police also confirmed that two surviving victims suffered serious injuries and were transported to a hospital in St. Louis, where they continue receiving medical treatment.
Victims Identified by Authorities
Illinois State Police identified the five people killed in the shooting as:
- Cherie L. May, 49
- Devin D. May, 24
- Patricia A. May, 74
- Quentin L. Thompson, 21
- Shania W. Thompson, 25
According to investigators, one victim was found near North 39th Street and Summit Avenue, three victims were discovered at the Samuel Gompers Homes, and another victim was located at Jones Park.
The two surviving victims were also found at Jones Park, where authorities say they sustained serious gunshot wounds.
Teen Suspects Taken Into Custody
Police have not publicly released the identities of the two juvenile suspects because of their ages.
However, investigators confirmed that at least one of the suspects is related to the victims, though officials have not disclosed the exact relationship or a possible motive behind the shootings.
Authorities said detectives are continuing to gather evidence while working closely with the St. Clair County State’s Attorney’s Office to pursue criminal charges against both suspects.
Additional information regarding potential charges is expected as the investigation progresses.
Investigation Remains Active
Officials emphasized that detectives are still working to determine exactly what led to the deadly series of shootings.
Speaking after the arrests, Kelly described the violence as devastating for the East St. Louis community but expressed confidence that those responsible had been quickly identified.
“These alleged acts of horrific violence, taking this number of lives, here in this community, it’s terrible. It’s evil, but it will not keep this city down,” Kelly said.
Authorities have not released additional details about the circumstances leading up to the shootings, and the investigation remains ongoing.
The allegations against the two teenage suspects have not been proven in court, and they are presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty through the legal process.
What are your thoughts on this tragic case? What steps do you believe communities and law enforcement can take to help prevent family-related violence? Share your thoughts respectfully in the comments below.
