MikeQuese T. Taylor, an 18-year-old from Peoria, Illinois, was fatally shot on April 30, 2024. He was found with gunshot wounds in an alley behind a Marathon gas station at the intersection of Forrest Hill and Knoxville Avenues in Peoria's East Bluff area. The incident occurred around 7:30 p.m., with police responding to the scene after officers in the area heard shots fired and received an alert from the ShotSpotter gunfire detection system indicating three rounds had been fired.
Taylor, a recent graduate of Peoria High School and a freshman at Kansas City Kansas Community College, was visiting his infant son and girlfriend in Peoria at the time of his death. He was a standout basketball player, averaging 10.3 points per game in his first season at the junior college level. Taylor was known for his leadership and his impact on the community, particularly through his involvement in local basketball camps and his role as a mentor and friend to many.
The investigation into Taylor's death revealed that he was ambushed by two males wearing masks who approached him while he was outside his car. Surveillance footage and witness accounts identified a suspect vehicle, which was linked to Messiah Carpenter, 20, who was previously charged in connection with the murder. Additional evidence, including cell phone records, implicated Korion Hopkins, 18, who was also charged with First Degree Murder for Taylor's killing. Both Hopkins and Carpenter were found to have been traveling together in the suspect vehicle at the time of the shooting.
As of July 29, 2024, both Korion Hopkins and Messiah Carpenter were in custody, with Hopkins being held on a separate case as well. The State’s Petition to Detain was granted for Hopkins, ensuring he would remain in custody until trial on both cases.
Taylor's death was the sixth homicide in Peoria for the year and the fourth involving gunfire. His community and family have been deeply affected by his loss, with many remembering him as a determined and motivated young man who inspired others through his achievements and his character.
