Peoria, IL – September 29, 2024— A heartbreaking tragedy unfolded Sunday evening in Peoria, Illinois, leaving a 10-year-old boy dead from gun violence. The incident, which has shaken both the Peoria and Springfield communities, occurred in the 600 block of West RB Garrett Avenue at approximately 7:36 p.m. According to the Peoria Police Department, officers were dispatched to the scene following a ShotSpotter alert reporting two gunshots in the area.
Upon arrival, officers found the young boy, later identified as Lamar T. Johnson II from Springfield, lying with an apparent gunshot wound. The gravity of the situation was immediately clear. Emergency medical personnel quickly transported Lamar to a nearby hospital, where, tragically, he was pronounced dead shortly after arrival. The devastating loss of life, particularly at such a young age, has left many reeling in disbelief and sorrow.
Lamar Johnson, who resided in the 400 block of South Grand Avenue in Springfield, was just 10 years old, with his whole life ahead of him. Described by neighbors and relatives as a bright and joyful child, Lamar’s untimely death has left a void that will not easily be filled. The senselessness of this act of violence resonates far beyond Peoria, as Springfield, Lamar’s hometown, also mourns the loss of one of its youngest.
Peoria County Coroner Jamie Harwood formally identified Lamar late Sunday evening, confirming his tragic passing and noting that a full autopsy would be conducted to determine the exact cause of death. While gunshot wounds are clearly the cause, the investigation aims to provide further details on the extent of the injuries and how events may have unfolded that night.
Following the incident, Peoria Police launched an immediate investigation. Members of the department’s Criminal Investigations Division (CID), Crime Scene Unit (CSU), and Patrol Unit responded to the scene and began their work. As of now, there is no confirmed information regarding a suspect or suspects, leaving the community anxiously awaiting answers.
Investigators are pursuing all leads and are urging anyone with information to come forward. The Peoria Police Department has stressed the importance of community involvement in solving this case, reminding residents that tips can be provided anonymously through tip411 or Crime Stoppers. The hope is that someone may have seen or heard something that could lead to justice for Lamar.
Community members have expressed their frustration with the lack of information thus far, but authorities emphasize that investigations of this nature require time and thoroughness. As of Monday, no suspects had been named or arrested, and police are asking the public to remain patient while they work diligently to piece together the events of that fateful evening.
The loss of Lamar Johnson has sent shockwaves through both Peoria and Springfield, bringing renewed attention to the ongoing issue of gun violence in Illinois. While Peoria has seen its share of shootings over the past year, the death of a 10-year-old child is particularly poignant and has sparked calls for more decisive action against violent crime.
Gun violence in urban areas like Peoria has been an ongoing concern, with various community organizations advocating for stronger preventive measures. According to the *Illinois State Police Crime Report* for 2023, Peoria recorded a significant increase in gun-related incidents, mirroring a broader statewide trend. Despite efforts to curb violence through youth outreach programs and stronger law enforcement presence, many believe that more needs to be done to address the root causes of such crimes, including poverty, lack of opportunities, and access to firearms.
In the aftermath of Lamar’s death, community leaders and activists have reiterated their calls for gun control reform, urging lawmakers to take more concrete steps toward addressing the epidemic of gun violence. Lamar’s death is a sobering reminder of how deeply gun violence can impact families, leaving behind immeasurable grief and anger.
As the investigation continues, the focus remains on finding Lamar’s killer and preventing future tragedies. Community members have begun organizing vigils and events in both Peoria and Springfield to honor Lamar’s memory, while also pushing for action to prevent another child from being taken too soon by violence.
Lamar’s family, friends, and community are left grappling with the enormity of their loss, hoping for justice and answers. In the meantime, the investigation remains ongoing, with the Peoria Police Department vowing to pursue every lead until those responsible are brought to justice.
Anyone with information about the shooting is encouraged to contact the Peoria Police Department at (309) 673-4521, or anonymously through Crime Stoppers at (309) 673-9000.
As the community awaits answers, the tragic loss of Lamar Johnson stands as a stark reminder of the devastating consequences of gun violence, one that Peoria and Springfield will not soon forget.