Darrin Wade "Charlie" Lancaster, a 43-year-old white male, tragically lost his life on July 26, 2015, in LaRose, Illinois. Born on August 12, 1971, in Streator, Illinois, to John and Judy Schumacher Lancaster, Charlie was well-known in his community. He was a graduate of Mid-County High School and had a passion for outdoor activities, including benefit motorcycle rides, mushroom hunting, fishing, and golfing. He worked as a machinist at Caterpillar Inc. and was remembered fondly by his colleagues for his hard work and light-hearted nature.
The circumstances surrounding Charlie Lancaster's death were both shocking and tragic. On the morning of July 26, 2015, he was found dead from a gunshot wound in the driveway of Thomas G. Masterson, a 72-year-old white male who had been a long-time friend of Lancaster. The two men had spent much of the previous day together, making the incident even more perplexing for those who knew them. Masterson, known as a good mechanic who ran an engine repair business, was arrested and charged with first-degree and second-degree murder following a standoff with police.
The investigation into Lancaster's death revealed that he had been shot at approximately 4:41 a.m. in Masterson's driveway. The motive behind the shooting remains unclear, leaving the community in shock and searching for answers. Masterson, who had a prior charge related to a gun-related incident in 2013, was held on a $1 million bond. The case was investigated by the Illinois State Police and the Marshall County Sheriff's Department, with the state's attorney obtaining search warrants to gather further evidence.
The tragic death of Darrin Charlie Lancaster left a significant impact on his family, friends, and the small community of LaRose. His funeral services were attended by many, including his co-workers from Caterpillar and fellow motorcyclists who led a procession to his burial site. The investigation into his death continued as authorities sought to piece together the events that led to the untimely demise of a beloved member of their community.
