On October 17, 2024, a fatal shooting occurred in Zion, Illinois, resulting in the death of 19-year-old Alexander Bailey of Waukegan. The incident took place in the 2500 block of Gilead Avenue, where the Zion Police Department, along with the Zion Fire Rescue Department and Winthrop Harbor Fire Department, responded to multiple 911 calls reporting gunfire around 7:57 a.m..
Upon arrival, emergency crews found two males who had been shot at a residence. Alexander Bailey and the second victim, an 18-year-old man from Zion, were both unconscious and not breathing at the scene. They were transported to Vista Medical Center East in Waukegan, where Bailey was pronounced dead in the emergency room due to multiple gunshot wounds, as confirmed by Lake County Coroner Jennifer Banek.
The second victim, who remains unidentified, was in critical condition and underwent surgery in an attempt to save his life. As of the latest reports, he was still alive and receiving medical treatment.
The Zion Police Department, assisted by the Lake County Major Crime Task Force, is actively investigating the homicide. Authorities believe that the shooting was a targeted event and have assured the public that there is no broader risk to the community. The investigation is ongoing, and specific details about the incident have not been disclosed to the public. Anyone with information is encouraged to contact the Zion Police Department at 847-872-8000 to speak with a member of the Investigations Division.
