CHILLICOTHE, Ill. – An 18-year-old male is hospitalized after being shot during what has been described to authorities as an “after prom party.”
Peoria County Sheriff Chris Watkins says deputies responded to the Valley Lakes Center, 13929 N. Ivy Lake Rd, in Chillicothe around 12:55 a.m. Sunday on a report of large group fighting and shots fired.
As they arrived people were seen running from the parking lot and the victim was found lying in the parking lot with a gunshot wound to the head. The victim was also found to have a firearm in his waistband which was later discovered to have been stolen from Texas.
The victim was transported to a local hospital with life threatening injuries. Watkins reported later the victim was “still alive in stable condition.”
Deputies located 48 shell casings in the parking lot along with a vehicle and a trailer damaged with bullet holes.
Detectives learned the gathering was a preplanned “after prom party” put on by students from local area high schools. The property manager claimed the site was reserved for a birthday party.
There are no suspects in custody and investigators believe there were witnesses to the shooting but no one has come forward.
Anyone with information on the shooting is urged to submit a tip through CrimeStoppers or on the Peoria County Sheriff’s app. Information can also be relayed by texting or calling Detective Demery at 309-216-4775. Tipsters can remain anonymous if they wish.
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