On the night of April 30, 2019, 41-year-old African American male Terry Lee Gaines was fatally shot in Danville, Illinois. Gaines, a Domino’s Pizza delivery driver, had just completed a delivery near the intersection of Alexander and Madison Streets when he was approached by two individuals attempting to rob him. Witnesses reported a brief struggle before shots were fired, and the suspects fled westbound from the scene. Gaines was pronounced dead at the scene.
The suspects were described as two Black males with slender builds; one approximately six feet tall wearing a black hooded jacket or sweatshirt, and the other about five feet nine inches tall, also wearing a black hooded sweatshirt. As of December 2022, no arrests had been made in connection with the case. Domino’s Pizza offered a $5,000 reward for information leading to an arrest.
Terry Lee Gaines was born on September 23, 1977, in Danville, Illinois, to Ricky L. Gaines and Verna Smith. He attended local schools and graduated from Danville High School. Known for his love of bowling, video games, and his infectious smile, Gaines was a devoted fiancé to Christina Fairchild and a supportive stepfather. He also provided financial assistance to his mother, Verna Smith.
The Danville community was deeply affected by Gaines' death, which was the third homicide in the city within a week. Mayor Rickey Williams Jr. expressed his condolences and commitment to bringing the perpetrators to justice. The Danville Police Department continues to investigate the case, urging anyone with information to contact them or Vermilion County Crime Stoppers.
