Charles Baird, a 19-year-old male from New Lenox, IL, tragically passed away on May 13, 2020, after succumbing to injuries inflicted upon him on May 10, 2020. Charles, known affectionately as Charlie or Chuck, was beloved by his family and friends. He was the son of David and Jennifer Baird and had a brother and sister, Danielle and Ryan. Charles grew up in New Lenox, enjoying activities like playing with dinosaurs, Legos, and video games in his younger years, and later, spending time with friends and sharing his infectious smile and personality. He had recently graduated from high school and was working as a cook, considering a career in culinary arts.
The incident leading to Charles Baird's death occurred at a Circle K gas station in New Lenox. On May 10, 2020, while Charles was inside the gas station, a Hyundai Santa Fe, stolen from Lockport on May 9, pulled up at a pump across from his car. An occupant of the stolen vehicle attempted to open the door of Charles's Subaru but found it locked. When Charles exited the gas station, he was approached by a second person who pointed a handgun at him. After a brief exchange of words, Charles turned to run, and the assailant fired a shot, striking him in the back. The offender then fled the scene in the stolen vehicle. Charles was found by New Lenox police officers inside the gas station and was taken to Silver Cross Hospital before being transferred to Christ Hospital, where he died from his injuries on May 13.
The investigation into Charles Baird's murder led to the arrest of 16-year-old Kevin Johnson from Harvey, IL. Johnson was charged with two counts of first-degree murder. He was identified as the shooter after an extensive investigation, which included reviewing surveillance footage and gathering witness statements. Johnson was already in custody at the Cook County Juvenile Detention Center on unrelated charges when he was identified as a suspect. He was subsequently taken into custody by New Lenox police and charged with the murder of Charles Baird. Johnson's bond was set at $2.5 million, and he has remained in custody since his arrest.
The case has seen several developments, including Johnson's attempts to establish an alibi. His attorney claimed that a witness, who had been living out of state, could provide an alibi for Johnson. However, Charles Baird's mother, Jennifer Baird, expressed skepticism about these claims, stating that they were an attempt to evade responsibility. The case has yet to go to trial, and the Baird family continues to seek justice for Charles, hoping for closure to this tragic chapter in their lives.
