Matthew C. Smith Jr., an 18-year-old African American male from Peoria, Illinois, tragically lost his life on November 25, 2021. He was pronounced dead at OSF Saint Francis Medical Center Emergency Room at 11:35 a.m. following a shooting incident. Born on September 24, 2003, in Peoria, Matthew was the son of Matthew C. Smith Sr. and Valerie Moore. His untimely death has left his family and community in mourning.
The incident occurred on Thanksgiving morning, and authorities quickly classified it as a homicide. Police were called to the 300 block of East Thrush Avenue at 11:06 a.m. after a ShotSpotter gunfire detection alert reported five shots in the area. Upon arrival, officers learned that Matthew had been transported to the hospital by a private vehicle, where he was later pronounced dead. The Peoria County Coroner, Jamie Harwood, confirmed that Matthew died from a gunshot wound to the chest, which likely caused instant death.
The investigation into Matthew's death led to the identification of a suspect, Martarius J. McGee, a 24-year-old male. McGee was described as being 6-foot-1-inch tall, weighing approximately 140 pounds, with long black hair with blonde tips, and brown eyes. He was considered armed and dangerous. On November 27, 2021, McGee turned himself in to the authorities. He was subsequently arrested and charged with first-degree murder, aggravated unlawful use of a weapon, and unlawful possession of a weapon by a felon. McGee is currently being held in the Peoria County Jail, and the investigation remains ongoing.
Matthew's death marked the 33rd homicide in Peoria for the year 2021, highlighting a troubling trend of violence in the area. The community has been urged to come forward with any information that could assist in the investigation. The Peoria Police Department continues to seek justice for Matthew and his family, and anyone with additional information is encouraged to contact the authorities.
