Illinois State University (ISU) Police are seeking public assistance following a fatal shooting near the campus early Sunday morning. At approximately 3:42 a.m. on September 29, 2024, officers responded to a large "pop-up party" in the 300 block of North Main Street. While dispersing the crowd, gunshots were fired in the 300 block of North University Street, resulting in two victims being transported to a local hospital. One victim, an 18-year-old from Oak Lawn, Illinois, was pronounced dead; the other, also 18, remains in critical condition. (wjbc.com)
The gathering, estimated to involve over 1,000 people, was not organized or sanctioned by the university. It began in a park and moved to a gas station, where the shooting occurred. ISU Police Chief Aaron Woodruff emphasized the importance of cooperation from such gatherings to prevent violence. (wglt.org)
Authorities are actively investigating the incident and urge anyone with information to contact the Normal Police Department at 309-454-9535. Anonymous tips can be submitted by texting "NORMALPD" to 847411. (wglt.org)
This tragic event underscores the ongoing challenges posed by unsanctioned large gatherings in the community. Local officials, including Normal Mayor Chris Koos, have expressed concern over such "pop-up parties" and their potential to escalate into violence. (pantagraph.com)
The ISU Police Department continues to collaborate with local law enforcement agencies to address safety concerns and prevent future incidents.
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