Tommy Joe "T.J." Burns, a 41-year-old white male, tragically lost his life on November 21, 2021, in Grayville, Illinois. Born on October 20, 1980, in Oran, Missouri, T.J. was a beloved member of his community and family. He was predeceased by his father, Thomas Cecil Burns, and his grandparents, William Burton, George, and Bertha Burns. He is survived by his mother, Rayma Sue Burns, his sons, Sylas Dylan Burns and Johnathan Daniel Burns, and his sisters, Angela Dawn Burns, Kearston Michelle Burns, Sara Ann Brelsfoard, and Tiffany Marie Franklin.
The circumstances surrounding T.J.'s death were tragic and violent. In the early hours of November 21, 2021, T.J. was found dead at a home on E. Sycamore Street in Grayville. The investigation revealed that he had been shot, leading to a swift response from local law enforcement. The primary suspect in the case was Steven Schmittler, a 56-year-old white male, who was subsequently arrested and charged with first-degree murder. Schmittler was also charged with aggravated battery with a firearm and unlawful possession of a firearm by a felon.
The legal proceedings that followed were intense and closely watched by the community. Schmittler's trial culminated in a jury finding him guilty of first-degree murder with firearm enhancement, aggravated battery with a firearm, aggravated discharge of a firearm, and unlawful possession of a firearm. The conviction brought some measure of justice for T.J.'s family and friends, who had been devastated by his untimely and violent death.
Throughout the investigation and trial, the community of Grayville remained supportive of T.J.'s family, offering condolences and standing by them during the difficult times. The case highlighted the impact of violent crime on small communities and the importance of a thorough and fair judicial process in bringing perpetrators to justice.
