Domonick White, a 34-year-old African American male, was tragically found dead on August 3, 2019, outside the Samuel Gompers public housing complex in East St. Louis, Illinois. The St. Clair County Coroner, Calvin Dye Sr., confirmed that Domonick White died from a gunshot wound to the chest. The incident occurred in the afternoon, and police were called to the scene following reports of shots fired. Upon arrival, they discovered White's body on the ground, marking the beginning of a thorough investigation into his untimely death.
The investigation led to the arrest of Darron L. Chairs Jr., a 30-year-old man from Cahokia, Illinois. Chairs Jr. was charged with first-degree murder in connection with the shooting of Domonick White. According to the Illinois State Police, Chairs Jr. shot White with the intent to kill or cause great bodily harm. The incident took place at the Samuel Gompers Housing complex, located at 450 North 6th Street, East St. Louis. Chairs Jr. was subsequently held in the St. Clair County Jail on a $1 million bond.
The case was jointly investigated by the East St. Louis Police Department and the Illinois State Police Division of Criminal Investigation–Zone 6. The charges against Chairs Jr. were filed by the Office of St. Clair County State’s Attorney James A. Gomric. The investigation revealed that the shooting was a deliberate act, leading to the classification of the crime as a Class M Criminal Felony. As the legal proceedings continue, the community remains vigilant, hoping for justice for Domonick White and his family.