Shawaan Maurice Warr, a 24-year-old African American male, tragically lost his life on February 27, 2020, in Peoria, Illinois. Born on January 23, 1996, Shawaan was a stellar student and an outstanding athlete, known for his academic achievements and prowess on the basketball court. He graduated from Manual High School with academic honors and was considered one of the best basketball players during his era.
On the night of February 26, 2020, Peoria police received multiple ShotSpotter alerts indicating gunfire in the area of the 1300 block of E Hillcrest Place. Officers on routine patrol heard approximately seven rounds fired and responded to the scene. Upon arrival, they found Shawaan M. Warr with a single gunshot wound to the upper body, which caused detrimental internal bleeding. He was pronounced dead at the scene.
The Peoria Police Department launched an investigation into Shawaan's death, treating it as a homicide. During the initial response, officers apprehended a suspect, 24-year-old Anthony A. Robinson, who was seen fleeing the area. Robinson was arrested for aggravated unlawful use of a weapon, aggravated discharge of a firearm, and obstructing police. Although Robinson was not immediately charged with murder, his arrest was believed to be related to the crime.
The investigation into Shawaan's death continued, with the Peoria County Coroner confirming that he likely died within seconds of being shot due to the severity of his injuries. The case garnered significant attention as Shawaan was the first homicide victim in Peoria for the year 2020.
Shawaan's untimely death left a void in the lives of his family, friends, and the community. He is survived by his parents, Dennis and Felicia Warr, his sister Niquarra Warr, and his brothers Terence Shelby Sr. and Dennis Warr Jr., among other relatives and friends. His funeral services were held on March 14, 2020, at Rising Sun Christian Church, where he was laid to rest at Lutheran Cemetery.
