Ameyah Tenise Brewton, a 21-year-old African American woman from Gurnee, Illinois, tragically lost her life on September 13, 2020. The incident occurred during a domestic dispute at a residence in the 600 block of Creekside Circle in Gurnee. Authorities responded to the scene shortly after midnight and found Ameyah with at least one gunshot wound. She was transported to Advocate Condell Medical Center, where she was pronounced dead.
The investigation revealed that Ameyah Brewton was in a domestic relationship with Isaiah J. Cole, a 19-year-old male from Gurnee. Cole was charged with involuntary manslaughter in connection with Ameyah's death. Additional charges against Cole included possession of a stolen firearm, unlawful possession of a firearm without a FOID card, unlawful possession of a controlled substance, and unlawful possession of cannabis with intent to deliver. The Lake County Major Crimes Task Force assisted the Gurnee Police Department in the investigation, which determined that the shooting was an isolated incident within the domestic relationship.
During the court proceedings, it was revealed that Cole had been playing with a loaded gun when it accidentally discharged, striking Ameyah in the arm and rib cage. Witnesses reported that Cole immediately expressed remorse, crying out, "Oh my God, I didn't mean to" and "Don't die." Despite his pleas, Ameyah succumbed to her injuries. Cole later entered a negotiated plea deal, pleading guilty to one count of involuntary manslaughter and one count of unlawful possession of meth with intent to distribute. In exchange, six other charges were dismissed. Cole was sentenced to four years in prison, with credit for time served, and will be required to undergo three years of probation upon his release.
The tragic death of Ameyah Brewton highlights the dangers of firearms in domestic settings and the devastating consequences of mishandling weapons. The case underscores the importance of responsible gun ownership and the need for stringent measures to prevent such incidents in the future.
