MOUNT VERNON, Ill. — A shooting early Sunday has left two individuals dead and five others injured, prompting an extensive investigation by local law enforcement. The incident unfolded around 12:49 a.m. in the 600 block of South 15th Street during a gathering that drew approximately 100 to 150 attendees.
Mount Vernon Mayor John Lewis expressed his profound sorrow over the violence, labeling the crime as senseless and promising that all available city resources will be applied to find those responsible. “We extend our deepest sympathies to the victims and their families, as well as to the entire community affected by this tragic event,” Lewis stated in a public release. He underscored that such violence will not be tolerated, reaffirming the community’s commitment to safety and lawfulness.
As the police continue their investigation, names of the deceased have not yet been released. According to Assistant Police Chief Travis Chapman, officers responded to reports of gunfire and found multiple victims suffering from gunshot wounds. All were quickly transported to local hospitals, with varying degrees of injuries. Authorities are currently encouraging anyone with information related to the incident to come forward.
In an unsettling detail, Lewis noted that the shooting occurred at a non-sanctioned event, raising concerns about public safety and the responsibilities of event organizers. “This is personal to me, as I have spent years addressing the chaos that disrupts our community. We must work collectively to ensure that those who perpetrate such violence are held accountable,” he remarked.
Despite the large crowd at the gathering, law enforcement has encountered challenges in obtaining cooperation from witnesses. The Mayor expressed disappointment over this lack of engagement, emphasizing the importance of community involvement in policing efforts. “We depend on our community to help keep our neighborhoods safe, and I urge anyone who witnessed anything to reach out to the Mount Vernon Police Department or Crimestoppers,” he stated.
Illinois State Sen. Terri Bryant also voiced her dismay in response to the shootings, sending her condolences to the victims’ families and praising the swift actions of first responders. She highlighted the crucial role that law enforcement plays in responding to such incidents and called for public support in sharing information that could lead to arrests.
Authorities are actively seeking any videos or images taken during the event that might shed light on the circumstances surrounding the shooting. Those with relevant footage are asked to share it via a designated link on the Mount Vernon Police Department’s Facebook page.
The investigation remains ongoing, with updates expected as more information comes to light. Community leaders continue to stress the need for vigilance and cooperation in addressing violence and ensuring a safe environment for all residents.