Jerome Woodfork, a 69-year-old African American man from Rockford, Illinois, tragically lost his life on December 26, 2020. Jerome was a beloved member of the Rockford community, known for his passion for bowling and his long tenure as a data processor with the Rockford Police Department. Born on July 12, 1951, in Memphis, Tennessee, Jerome moved to Rockford where he spent most of his life.
He was a Vietnam War veteran and a cancer survivor, remembered fondly by his family and friends for his kindness and sociable nature.
On the evening of December 26, 2020, Jerome Woodfork was one of the victims in a mass shooting at Don Carter Lanes, a popular bowling alley in Rockford. The incident occurred around 6:55 p.m. when Duke Webb, a Special Forces Green Beret on leave from the Army, opened fire inside the establishment. Jerome Woodfork, along with two other men, 73-year-old Dennis Steinhoff and 65-year-old Thomas Furseth, were killed in the shooting. Jerome was found in the parking lot below the balcony, having been shot in the neck.
The shooter, Duke Webb, was quickly apprehended and charged with three counts of murder and three counts of attempted murder. Webb admitted to the shooting, and the entire incident was captured on surveillance cameras. During the attack, Webb also injured a 14-year-old boy who was shot in the face, a 16-year-old girl who was shot in the shoulder, and a 62-year-old man who sustained multiple gunshot wounds. The motive behind Webb's actions remains unclear, but he was denied bond and is awaiting trial.
The community of Rockford was deeply shaken by the tragedy, and a candlelight vigil was held to honor the victims. Jerome Woodfork's death left a significant void in the lives of his family and friends, who remember him as a loving father, grandfather, and friend. His son, Jerron Woodfork, along with other family members, continue to mourn his loss while seeking justice for the senseless act of violence that claimed his life.
