On Sunday, May 5, 2024, Zachary J. "Mikey" Meincke, a 19-year-old resident of Rock Island, Illinois, but associated with Moline, was fatally shot in the early morning hours. The incident occurred in the 1800 block of 31st Street in Moline, where he was found along with another victim, 17-year-old Giovanni Flores.
Zachary Meincke was born on August 4, 2004, in Davenport, Iowa, to parents James Meincke and Jenny Rosenbaum. He graduated from Moline High School in 2023 and was known for his vibrant personality, infectious smile, and love for activities such as fast cars, competitive dart games, and engaging movies. He was described as having a big heart and being a beacon of kindness and genuine affection, often being the life of any gathering.
The Moline Police Department is actively investigating the double homicide, working through hundreds of leads, conducting interviews, and analyzing video and other digital information. As of the current date, no suspects have been identified or arrested. The police are urging the community to provide any information related to the incident, emphasizing the importance of gathering all accounts to ensure a complete and thorough investigation.
A memorial was built along Avenue of the Cities in Moline for the victims shortly after the incident, but it was later taken down in collaboration with the families of Meincke and Flores. Mementos and keepsakes were removed before the memorial was cleaned up.
Funeral services for Zachary Meincke were held on Monday, May 13, 2024, at Trimble Funeral Home in Moline. The visitation took place from 3:00 to 6:00 p.m., followed by a service at 6:00 p.m. officiated by Rev. Tanner Payton. A memorial fund was established to help the family with funeral expenses.
Zachary is survived by his mother, Jenny Rosenbaum Meincke; his father and step-mother, James and Shannon Meincke; sisters Alyssa and Kierstyn Meincke; step-siblings Shayla Hart and Zander Hart; his grandmother Marlene Meincke; and several other relatives and friends. He was preceded in death by his grandparents Bruce and Cindy Rosenbaum, his uncle Bruce Rosenbaum, and friends Jeremie and Kenny Carrol.
