Accident – death – Obituary News :

Teenage Girl Fatally Shot in Mt. Vernon, Illinois

A devastating incident in Mt. Vernon, Illinois has left the community in shock as a 17-year-old girl tragically lost her life in a shooting on Saturday afternoon.

Emergency Response to the Distress Call

At approximately 4:11 p.m. on January 13, the Mt. Vernon Police Department Dispatch Center received an alarming 911 call that was filled with screams but lacked any specific information. Concerned for the safety of the individuals involved, officers were immediately dispatched to a residence located in the 1800 block of Lamar Avenue.

Discovering the Tragic Scene

Upon arrival, the responding officers quickly ascertained that a 17-year-old female resident had sustained a gunshot wound. Furthermore, they encountered a 16-year-old male holding a handgun at the scene. Thankfully, the officers were able to apprehend the 16-year-old male and secure the firearm.

A Heartbreaking Loss

The 17-year-old victim was immediately rushed to a local hospital, where medical professionals worked tirelessly to save her life. Tragically, despite their efforts, she was later pronounced deceased.

Legal Actions Taken

The 16-year-old male suspect was promptly transported to the Mt. Vernon Police Department for processing. Following consultations with the Jefferson County State’s Attorney’s Office, the male juvenile is currently facing preliminary charges, including armed violence/discharge of a firearm, aggravated battery with a firearm, involuntary manslaughter, and unlawful possession of a firearm by a person under 18. It is important to note that these charges may be subject to amendment as the investigation progresses.

Prior Offenses

Surprisingly, this is not the first encounter the Mt. Vernon Police Department has had with the male offender. In April 2023, a vigilant dispatcher from the Police Department spotted the juvenile with a handgun and promptly alerted the officers.

Despite attempting to elude capture, the male was eventually apprehended following a foot pursuit. During his arrest, officers discovered that he was in possession of a loaded firearm and had additional ammunition on his person. As a result, he was detained in a juvenile justice facility on charges of armed violence, aggravated unlawful use of a weapon, and resisting arrest.

Parole Violation

Adding to the gravity of the situation, it was revealed that the male juvenile was on parole at the time of the January 13, 2024 incident. The Illinois Department of Corrections was promptly notified of this arrest and may proceed with issuing a parole violation warrant.

Past Criminal History

Shockingly, prior to the April 2023 arrest, the male offender had already been involved in other criminal activities. The Mt. Vernon Police Department had previously arrested him for armed robbery in one incident and aggravated battery in another.

The tragic loss of a young life and the circumstances surrounding this distressing event have deeply impacted the local community. As investigations continue, the community rallies together to support the grieving family and seek justice for the young victim.

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