On March 25, 2023, a fatal shooting occurred at a house party in Macomb, Illinois, resulting in the death of Jerman Beathea, a 26-year-old male from Chicago. Beathea died at the scene due to gunshot wounds.
The incident took place at 533 North Johnson Street, where Macomb Police Department (MPD) responded to reports of gunshots at 1:55 a.m. In addition to Beathea's death, ten others were injured, with six of the injured being Western Illinois University students. Many of the injured suffered superficial gunshot wounds, and it is believed that those treated at hospitals or trauma centers will recover.
Two individuals have been arrested in connection with the shooting. Donnel D. Williams, a 23-year-old from Macomb and a former Western Illinois University student, was arrested on charges of possession of a ghost gun (a privately assembled, untraceable firearm), 1.5 pounds of cannabis with intent to distribute, and armed violence. Williams is being held on a $500,000 bond.
Another arrest was made later, with Demond E. Wilson Jr. of Calumet Park, Illinois, taken into custody on charges of aggravated discharge of a firearm. Wilson's bond was set at $750,000, and he is being held at the McDonough County Jail.
The MPD is continuing its investigation and has indicated that more arrests may be forthcoming. The police have collected evidence, including personal items left behind at the scene, and are urging anyone with information or video of the incident to contact CrimeStoppers or email the police department.
The community has been assured that there is no ongoing threat to the public or the campus at this time. The preliminary hearing for Donnel D. Williams is scheduled for April 12, with the charges potentially carrying a minimum prison sentence of 15 years.
