Media Contact: Deputy Chief Joe Gallo | 217-403-6926 | [email protected]
This morning, at approximately 8:38 AM, Champaign Police responded to the 700 Block of S. Sixth St. after receiving citizen reports of a disorderly subject.
Preliminary reports reveal that a call was placed to 9-1-1 after a citizen reportedly saw an individual consuming alcohol, running in and out of traffic and yelling at passersby. The individual fled the scene as officers approached and was eventually detained in the 600 Block of S. Sixth St. Based off of the individual’s behavior, medical personnel were also summoned to the scene.
During the interaction with police, the individual became unresponsive. Officers and paramedics immediately provided medical care. The individual was then transported to Carle Foundation Hospital where at 9:42 AM, he was pronounced deceased by hospital personnel.
A report provided by Champaign County Coroner Duane Northrup identifies the individual as 54-year-old Richard B. Turner of Champaign. According to Northrup, preliminary autopsy findings show that Mr. Turner did not show any sign of injury or trauma. The cause of death is pending further study.
Champaign Police Chief, Anthony Cobb stated, “We are deeply affected at the loss of any life and our condolences are with Mr. Turner’s family and friends. This is a very unfortunate incident that will be thoroughly reviewed by the coroner and law enforcement officers to fully understand the dynamics of this incident.”
The incident is under investigation by the Champaign County Multi-jurisdictional Investigative Team, which is led by the Illinois State Police.
Limited information is available at this time as investigators are still working to collect evidence. An update will be provided as soon as verified details become available.
The Champaign Police Department is dedicated to providing the highest quality of service and protection to our community. In accordance with our commitment to transparency, the officers who responded to this call for service include, Officer Michael Talbott, Officer Andrew Wilson, Officer Christopher Young and Sergeant Thomas Frost.