James Davis Waddell, a 56-year-old African American male, was fatally shot on the night of December 9, 2016, in Joliet, Illinois. The incident occurred at the intersection of McDonough and Ottawa Streets. A witness reported hearing multiple gunshots and observed an individual wearing a brown Carhartt jacket fleeing the scene. Waddell was transported to St. Joseph's Hospital, where he was pronounced dead shortly before 11 p.m.
Born on July 21, 1960, in Lexington, Mississippi, to Curtis Brown and Annie Mae Waddell, James, affectionately known as "Curtis," relocated to Joliet, Illinois, where he attended local public schools, including Joliet Central High School. He was known for his strong will, love for animals, and deep affection for his family. Professionally, Curtis worked in the manufacturing industry as an assembly line worker.
As of the latest available information, no arrests have been made in connection with the murder of James Davis Waddell. His case remains unsolved, contributing to the list of 28 unsolved murders in Joliet since 2013. The Joliet Police Department continues to seek information from the public to aid in solving these cases.
