Byron E. Gettis Jr., a 19-year-old male from East Saint Louis, Illinois, was found deceased on March 9, 2025. His body was discovered in an alley in the 1700 block of Gay Avenue, having sustained multiple gunshot wounds. The St. Clair County Coroner confirmed his death at 5:30 p.m. that evening. Authorities, including the Illinois State Police, were called to the scene by the East St. Louis Police Department later that night to begin their investigation.
Gettis Jr.
was the son of former Major League Baseball player Byron Gettis Sr., who had transitioned into coaching football after his professional baseball career. Earlier in the year, Gettis Sr. had celebrated his son's enlistment in the U.S. Army, expressing pride in his son's commitment to military service. Byron Gettis Jr. had been serving in the Army Reserve for a year and was preparing for deployment to Kuwait at the end of March. His family described him as hardworking, respectful, and ambitious, balancing his military duties with school and two jobs.
His mother, Latricia Gettis, reported him missing on the morning of March 9 after he failed to return home or attend his Army Reserve drill over the weekend. She had sensed something was wrong when she could no longer track his location. Her fears were confirmed when authorities found his body later that day. She and his father rushed to the scene upon receiving the devastating news.
At this time, police have not released information regarding any arrests or suspects in connection with the case. The investigation remains ongoing, and authorities have stated that no further details will be disclosed at this stage. Gettis Jr.'s family and fellow soldiers continue to seek answers and justice for his untimely death.
