Joseph Edward Geyman, a 51-year-old white male from Ozark, Illinois, tragically passed away on August 28, 2021. Geyman, who was born on June 24, 1970, in Centralia, Illinois, was a dedicated correctional officer and a small business owner. He was married to Monica Ann Montgomery and was a father to four children. His death occurred in Johnson County, Illinois, where he had lived and worked for many years.
The circumstances surrounding Joseph Edward Geyman's death were both shocking and
tragic. On the night of August 28, 2021, Geyman was fatally shot by his half-brother, Larry D. Cavitt, during an argument over coronavirus vaccines. The incident took place at Geyman's residence in Tunnel Hill, Illinois. According to reports, the argument escalated when Cavitt, a 68-year-old white male, pulled out a handgun and shot Geyman in the head. The altercation did not involve any physical fight prior to the shooting. Geyman was pronounced dead at the scene by responding officers from the Illinois State Police and the Johnson County Sheriff's Office.
Following the incident, Larry D. Cavitt was arrested and charged with two counts of first-degree murder and aggravated battery with a firearm. He was initially held at the Massac County Jail with a bond set at $750,000. Cavitt's trial concluded on February 23, 2024, where he was found guilty of the charges. On May 17, 2024, Cavitt was sentenced to 50 years in the Illinois Department of Corrections, which included 25 years for first-degree murder and an additional 25 years due to the statutory firearm enhancement.
The case drew significant attention due to the nature of the dispute and the familial relationship between the victim and the perpetrator. Joseph Edward Geyman was remembered by his community as a dedicated family man and a respected member of the local community. His untimely death left a profound impact on his family, friends, and colleagues. The legal proceedings against Larry D. Cavitt highlighted the severity of the crime and the judicial system's response to such a senseless act of violence.
