Anthony Pedroza, a 23-year-old male from Zion, Illinois, tragically lost his life on December 24, 2022, following a shooting incident at Stretch’s Sports Bar and Grill in Waukegan. The incident occurred around 2:20 a.m. on Christmas Eve. According to the Lake County Coroner, Pedroza died from a gunshot wound to the chest. The Waukegan Police Department responded to the scene after receiving a call about the shooting. Upon arrival, officers found Pedroza with a gunshot wound and immediately began lifesaving measures. Despite their efforts, Pedroza was transported to Vista Medical Center East, where he was pronounced dead.
The shooting also left another man, a male in his 20s from Waukegan, injured. This second victim sustained non-life-threatening injuries and had self-transported to the hospital before the police arrived. The Waukegan Police Department's Criminal Investigations Division and Major Crime Scene Unit were called to the scene to investigate the incident.
Following the investigation, Robert B. Sudduth, a 30-year-old male from Waukegan, was identified as a suspect. Sudduth was taken into custody and charged with one count of first-degree murder and one count of aggravated unlawful use of a weapon. He was held at the Lake County Jail on a $2 million bond, requiring $200,000 cash for his release. Sudduth's preliminary hearing was scheduled for January 3, 2023. The authorities have stated that they are not seeking any other suspects in connection with the case.
The tragic death of Anthony Pedroza has left a significant impact on the community, with ongoing legal proceedings against the accused, Robert B. Sudduth. The case highlights the severe consequences of gun violence and the importance of thorough investigations to bring justice to the victims and their families.
