Terrelle Suggs, a 20-year-old African American male, tragically lost his life on January 13, 2017, in Montgomery, Illinois. Terrelle was fatally shot in the head during a drive-by shooting at the intersection of Orchard Road and Jericho Road. He was driving northbound with three passengers when another vehicle pulled alongside and fired several rounds into their car.
Terrelle was initially transported to Presence Mercy Medical Center in Aurora and later airlifted to Loyola Medical Center, where he was pronounced dead the following morning.
Terrelle Suggs, born on March 31, 1996, in Naperville, Illinois, was a beloved son, brother, and friend. He graduated from West Aurora High School in 2014 and briefly attended Iowa Wesleyan before returning to Aurora to be closer to his family. He was known for his bright smile, caring nature, and love for animals. His untimely death left a deep void in the lives of his family and friends.
In the aftermath of Terrelle's death, the investigation revealed that one of the passengers in his car, Gheroncia Suggs, a 21-year-old Montgomery resident, had a history of violent crimes. Gheroncia was charged with attempted first-degree murder and other felonies in connection with a 2015 shooting. He was out on bond at the time of Terrelle's death but was later taken back into custody for violating the conditions of his bail by possessing a machine gun, among other offenses.
The drive-by shooting that claimed Terrelle's life remains a poignant reminder of the violence that can erupt unexpectedly, leaving families and communities to grapple with the loss and seek justice. The investigation into Terrelle's murder continues, with law enforcement working diligently to bring those responsible to justice. The community has held vigils and prayer services to honor Terrelle's memory and support his grieving family.