Daniel "Danny" Robert Lee, a 40-year-old Caucasian male from Collinsville, Illinois, tragically lost his life on June 15, 2018. Danny was a self-employed carpenter and landscaper who enjoyed hunting, fishing, and watching Rams football games. He was born on March 6, 1978, in Belleville, Illinois. Danny was survived by his partner, Amber Williams, his daughter, Danielle Lee, his mother, Penny Basarich, and his father, Gary Lee.
The circumstances surrounding Danny Lee's death were harrowing. On the night of June 15, 2018, Danny was shot in the head by his neighbor, Robert Beckman, with a Browning 12-gauge shotgun. The incident occurred around 9:30 p.m. on Illinois Avenue, Collinsville. Beckman, who had a history of a bad temper, admitted to the shooting, stating that he was "pissed off" at the time.
Following the shooting, Beckman fled the scene but was apprehended by Illinois state troopers after crashing his vehicle into a guardrail. Beckman was charged with two counts of first-degree murder and was sentenced to 45 years in prison. The investigation revealed that Beckman had a history of unlawful use of a weapon and battery.
The tragic death of Danny Lee left a profound impact on his family and the Collinsville community. His family held a visitation and a Celebration of Life to honor his memory. The case serves as a stark reminder of the devastating consequences of unchecked anger and violence.
