Stefan Christopher Chism Dunn, born on May 13, 2005, in Cahokia Heights, Illinois, passed away at the age of 19 on June 14, 2024. He was the beloved son of Lagrant Dunn and Ashley Chism, and a cherished brother to eight brothers and five sisters. Stefan's family remembers him as a caring brother and a beloved son, whose laughter will forever resonate in their memories.
Stefan's life was tragically cut short due to gun violence. On the night of June 14, 2024, he was fatally shot on Camp Jackson Road in Cahokia Heights. After being wounded, Stefan fled to the parking lot of Mars Supermarket, where he collapsed. He was pronounced dead at 11:36 p.m. in the emergency room at Touchette Regional Hospital. Another individual was also wounded in the incident but is expected to recover. As of now, no arrests have been made, and the Cahokia Heights Police Department is seeking information from the public to aid in their investigation.
Stefan's passing has left a profound void in the lives of his family and friends. His mother, Ashley, fondly recalls his ability to charm his way back into her heart when he knew he had done something wrong. Stefan's love for basketball was evident; he earned his first gold medal from the Mary E. Brown Center in East St. Louis and took pride in his skill at three-point shots. He attended several local schools, including Helen Davis Early Childhood Program, Lilly Freeman, Dunbar Elementary School, Lincoln Middle School, and East St. Louis Sr. High School.
Funeral services were held on July 5, 2024, at Greater St. Mark COGIC in East St. Louis, followed by burial at Sunset Gardens of Memory in Millstadt, Illinois. The community continues to mourn the loss of a young life taken too soon, remembering Stefan for his warmth, kindness, and the joy he brought to those around him.
