David E. Dalton Jr., a 32-year-old African American male, was tragically shot and killed on June 20, 2021, in Champaign, Illinois. The incident occurred at the Country Brook Apartments in west Champaign. According to reports, the shooting took place around 12:30 a.m. near Springfield Avenue and Kenwood. When officers arrived at the scene, they found a large crowd and discovered David E. Dalton Jr. with a gunshot wound to his back. He was pronounced dead at 12:58 p.m. at Carle Foundation Hospital in Urbana. Another man, aged 27, was also shot in the leg but survived the incident.
The investigation into David E. Dalton Jr.'s death revealed that approximately 40 shell casings were found at the scene, indicating a chaotic and violent encounter. Fireworks were also being set off at the time, adding to the confusion. The Champaign Police Department classified the incident as a homicide and launched an extensive investigation to identify the perpetrators. They urged anyone with information or security camera footage from nearby businesses to come forward to assist in the investigation.
In connection with the murder of David E. Dalton Jr., a significant development occurred when 20-year-old Davucci Craig was arrested and charged. Craig was identified as the initial gunman who targeted Kieshaun Thatch, a nephew of David E. Dalton Jr., during a gathering at the American Legion on Hickory Street following Dalton's funeral on July 2, 2021. The shooting at the American Legion resulted in multiple injuries, with over 100 shell casings found at the scene. Craig was formally charged with first-degree murder with a firearm, which carries a sentence of 45 to 85 years of incarceration. Additionally, Craig faced charges of aggravated cruelty to animals and criminal damage to property.
The arrest of Davucci Craig marked a crucial step in the ongoing investigation into the murder of David E. Dalton Jr. The Champaign Police Department continued to gather evidence and testimonies to build a strong case against Craig and any other individuals involved in the shooting. The community was encouraged to provide any additional information that could aid in bringing justice to the family of David E. Dalton Jr. and ensuring the safety of the neighborhood.
