Do you know who murdered Eric Beasley in 1986?
Eric Beasley, aged 24, was shot and killed on December 20, 1986, in Champaign, Illinois. He was found late at night around 11:45 p.m. on the 800 block of North Randolph Street. Witnesses reported hearing several gunshots, but no one actually saw the shooter. Beasley was taken to Burnham Hospital, where he was pronounced dead shortly after midnight on December 21, 1986. The autopsy revealed that Beasley had been shot six times, with one of the fatal bullets entering through his hip and moving towards his heart. Witness statements described hearing multiple shots, but there were no witnesses who could provide a clear description of the assailant or the events leading up to the shooting.
Eric Beasley’s case has remained unsolved for decades, with investigators facing numerous challenges. There were indications that Beasley had conflicts involving drugs and money shortly before his death. He was known to have a troubled relationship, and reports from his girlfriend suggested instances of abuse. Furthermore, in the weeks leading up to his death, it was reported that Beasley had become increasingly dependent on drugs. The police received tips and anonymous calls, but none of these led to a solid lead that could solve the case.
Despite efforts to analyze evidence, including the submission of a Colt .32 caliber weapon to the crime lab for testing, the case remained at a standstill, with no direct evidence connecting any suspects to the crime. It is possible that mishandling of forensic evidence, such as improper swabbing procedures for residue tests, also contributed to the lack of progress in solving the case. This unsolved homicide remains part of Champaign’s history of unsolved violent crimes, reflecting the difficulty of gathering sufficient evidence and reliable witness testimony in such cases. If anyone has information that could help solve this cold case, they are encouraged to contact the Champaign Police Department.
