The Champaign Police Department is currently investigating three separate cases of gun violence, all occurring within a 24-hour period in the north and northwest areas of the City.
The most recent incident occurred on June 8, 2013, at 12:10 PM, in the 1300 block of N. Hickory Street. Police received a report that multiple shots were fired from a blue Chrysler 300 car occupied by four or five males in their late teens or early 20’s. The vehicle was last seen heading westbound on Arcadia toward Neil Street.
On Friday, June 7, 2013, at approximately 1:15 PM, police were dispatched to the 1100 block of Mimosa for reports of gunshots heard. Upon arrival, officers found a red car damaged by gunfire and a back seat window blown out. At this time, there have been no reported injuries. Witnesses reported that the shots may have come from a red 1990s work truck, with filler putty on the side of the truck, near the bottom. Two men were arrested based on the preliminary information received at the scene, but later released. Officers also located a second car in the 900 block of Ada that was damaged by gunfire. However, it did not appear to be a target of the shooters.
Later in the evening, at 7:28 PM, three males were shot while walking in the 400 block of East Washington Street. Reports indicate that a vehicle passed by, rolled down the window, and began shooting at the males. The three victims, all between the age of 18 and 20, were transported to an area hospital for what appeared to be non-life-threatening injuries. The vehicle is described as a silver Chrysler Pacifica or a silver Nissan Murano.
Champaign police are currently processing evidence, gathering information about potential suspects and determining if any of these incidents are related.
We are very concerned about the recent acts of gun violence and hope that the community will assist us by either providing information on this case or reaching out to any suspects involved in any of these shootings,” said Deputy Chief Troy Daniels. “We are using all of our resources to locate these suspects and will use every legal means to stop and arrest those involved. We are aware that these are two groups of males involved in a gang dispute,” he added.
The public is asked to call police with any information which may lead to an arrest of the shooters.
Information can reported to the Champaign Police Department by calling (217) 351-4545 or callers can remain anonymous by calling Crime Stoppers at 373-8477 (TIPS). Information can also be sent by anonymous web tip by going to: www.373tips.com or by texting keyword “CCTIP” plus the information to 274637 (CRIMES). Crime Stoppers will pay up to $1000 for information leading to an arrest.