On December 18, 2024, a tragic shooting occurred in Mahomet, Illinois, resulting in the deaths of 61-year-old Janis L. Mason, her 26-year-old daughter Sara E. Mason, and her 23-year-old son Caleb M. Mason. The incident took place at their residence on Riverside Court around 9:41 p.m., where police responding to reports of gunfire found the three family members with life-threatening injuries.
Sara Mason was pronounced dead at the scene, while Janis and Caleb were transported to Carle Foundation Hospital in Urbana, where they succumbed to their injuries shortly after 10 p.m.
The suspect in this triple homicide was identified as 24-year-old John R. Lyons of Westchester, Illinois. Later that night, Lyons was located in Berwyn, a suburb of Chicago. Upon being approached by law enforcement, he fled on foot, forcibly entered a residence, and fatally shot two dogs. When confronted by police officers, Lyons opened fire, prompting the officers to return fire, resulting in his death. No officers were injured during this confrontation.
The Mahomet community has been deeply affected by this tragedy, with residents expressing shock and mourning the loss of the Mason family. A prayer vigil was held at Grace Church of Mahomet to honor the victims and provide support for grieving community members.
Authorities continue to investigate the circumstances leading up to the shooting, seeking to understand the motive behind Lyons' actions. As the investigation unfolds, the community remains united in grief, offering condolences and support to the surviving family members and friends of Janis, Sara, and Caleb Mason.
