Five people were killed and two others were injured Sunday in a series of shootings that authorities say targeted a family in East St. Louis, a city of roughly 18,000 residents in southwestern Illinois.
Multiple scenes across the city
Illinois State Police reported the violence unfolded at three separate locations. Officers found three people fatally shot at the Samuel Gompers Homes in the 400 block of North 6th Street. Another person was shot and killed at 39th and Summit streets. At Jones Park, one person was killed and two others were wounded.
| Location | Address | Casualties |
|---|---|---|
| Samuel Gompers Homes | 400 block of North 6th Street | 3 killed |
| 39th and Summit | — | 1 killed |
| Jones Park | — | 1 killed, 2 injured |
Suspects and investigation
Police said two suspects, both 16 years old, were taken into custody in connection with the shootings. Officials did not release their names or additional details about a motive. At a news conference, Illinois State Police Director Brendan Kelly described the episode as “horrific violence” and emphasized the public was not in danger.
"I just want to say these alleged acts, horrific violence taking this number of lives here in this community, it's terrible," Kelly said. "It's evil, but it will not keep this city down..."
Local impact and immediate response
City and state law-enforcement personnel responded to multiple scenes across East St. Louis on Sunday. Authorities have not released further information about the victims, whether they were related, or what led to the shootings. Investigators are continuing to process the scenes and gather evidence.
- Casualties: 5 dead, 2 injured.
- Suspects: Two 16-year-olds taken into custody.
- Scenes: Samuel Gompers Homes (N. 6th St.), 39th & Summit, and Jones Park.
The State Police director urged calm and said there was no ongoing threat to the public. Community leaders and residents, already coping with the shock of Sunday’s events, will be watching for updates as authorities release more details about victims, the suspects and possible motives. Parents and community organizations often turn to local schools, social services and police outreach in the days after such incidents; those resources may be especially relevant in East St. Louis as officials proceed with their investigation.
News Block will continue to monitor official updates from Illinois State Police, East St. Louis authorities and community sources and will report new information as it becomes available.
