A 27-year-old Kankakee man is facing serious charges after a Tuesday afternoon shooting that left one man dead and another wounded, according to police. The gunfire broke out just before 2 p.m. in the 500 block of South Fifth Avenue in Kankakee. Investigators say the suspected shooter is in custody while prosecutors review the case.
Kankakee police say officers were first dispatched for a reported robbery and a gunshot victim. When they arrived, they found two men suffering from gunshot wounds and detained a suspect at the scene. A 38-year-old man was taken to a nearby hospital, where he was pronounced dead. The second victim survived with injuries that authorities say are not believed to be life-threatening.
Police identified the suspect as Malik Jones, 27. He was taken to the Jerome Combs Detention Center and charged with homicide and aggravated battery with a firearm, according to FOX 32 Chicago. Investigators say the case remains active while the Kankakee County State's Attorney's Office decides on formal charges.
Anyone with information is asked to contact Kankakee police at 815-933-0426.
Investigation and Local Context
Authorities have not released the identity of the man who died and have not discussed a possible motive. Detectives say they are still piecing together what led up to the shooting and will release more information once it is confirmed.
The killing is the latest violent incident reported in the Kankakee area. Earlier this year, a contract worker was shot at after a neighborhood dispute, and this past winter police responded to an earlier deadly shooting in the city. Police say each case is being handled as a separate investigation.
Charges and What Comes Next
Jones was booked into the Jerome Combs Detention Center while detectives continue their work and prosecutors determine exactly which counts to file. Under Illinois law, aggravated battery involving a firearm can bring enhanced penalties. The homicide allegation could ultimately be charged as murder, manslaughter, or another offense once the Kankakee County State's Attorney's Office finalizes the case.
For more information about the county jail facility, see the Kankakee County Sheriff's Office. For statutory background on homicide and firearm-related offenses, refer to the Illinois Compiled Statutes.
Kankakee police are again asking anyone who witnessed the shooting, has video, or has other information to call the department at 815-933-0426. The victim's name has not been released, and investigators say they will provide updates as the case moves forward. This story will be updated as officials release additional details.
