Rashad Williams, a 19-year-old African American male from Peoria Heights, Illinois, tragically lost his life on June 20, 2021. According to the Peoria County Coroner, Rashad Williams died from multiple gunshot wounds. The incident occurred in the early hours of the morning, around 1:08 a.m., outside an apartment complex in the 900 block of West Crestwood Drive. Rashad was pronounced dead at the scene approximately 90 minutes later. The coroner's report indicated that he likely died instantly due to the severity of his injuries.
The investigation into Rashad Williams' death revealed that he was one of two victims in a double homicide. The other victim, Josiah Hanson, a 28-year-old male from McDonough, Georgia, succumbed to severe internal bleeding from a single gunshot wound to the torso. Hanson was found inside an apartment and was transported to OSF St. Francis Medical Center, where he died shortly after 4 a.m. The Peoria Police Department continues to investigate the incident, which marked the city's 14th and 15th homicides of 2021.
Peoria police believe that the deaths of Rashad Williams and Josiah Hanson may have resulted from a shootout between the two men. According to the police, Hanson had left an apartment to retrieve something from a vehicle in the parking lot when he encountered Williams, who had been dropped off nearby. An altercation ensued, leading to both men shooting each other. They then ran in opposite directions before collapsing from their injuries. The police have stated that it does not appear that Williams and Hanson knew each other or had any previous contact.
As of now, there have been no arrests or suspects identified in connection with the deaths of Rashad Williams and Josiah Hanson. The investigation remains ongoing, with the Peoria Police Department continuing to gather evidence and interview witnesses to piece together the events that led to the fatal encounter. The community remains in mourning for the loss of these two young lives, and the authorities are committed to bringing justice to their families.
