Antwane McClelland Jr., a 26-year-old African American male from Decatur, IL, tragically lost his life on July 15, 2021. Born on July 3, 1995, to Cherronda R. Dear and Antwane F. McClelland Sr., Antwane was a beloved son, father, and community member. His untimely death occurred during a block party in Decatur, where an argument escalated into a violent altercation, resulting in multiple gunshots being fired. Antwane was found lying in the street with fatal gunshot wounds, surrounded by shell casings.
The investigation into Antwane McClelland Jr.'s death led to the arrest of Damariyon Mills, a 22-year-old male, who was apprehended by the U.S. Marshals Violent Fugitive Task Force and the Decatur Police Department's Street Crimes Unit. Mills was arrested on charges of aggravated discharge of a firearm and aggravated unlawful use of weapons. During the search of Mills' residence and vehicle, authorities discovered a 9mm handgun, ammunition, and other evidence linking him to the crime. Mills was subsequently held in the Macon County Jail as the investigation continued.
The tragic death of Antwane McClelland Jr. has had a profound impact on his family and the Decatur community. His father, Antwane McClelland Sr., a deacon at City of Praise Church, has been vocal about the need to address gun violence in the community. The family organized a vigil and other events to honor Antwane's memory and advocate for change. Despite the pain of losing two sons to gun violence within 13 months, Antwane Sr. remains committed to supporting his community and preventing further tragedies.
The case against Damariyon Mills is ongoing, with detectives continuing to gather evidence and pursue additional leads. The Decatur Police Department has urged anyone with information about the incident to come forward, emphasizing the importance of community cooperation in solving such cases. The loss of Antwane McClelland Jr. serves as a stark reminder of the devastating impact of gun violence and the urgent need for collective efforts to create a safer environment for all residents.
