Crime & Safety

Shooting At Western Illinois University Party Kills 1, Wounds 10

Police said gunfire erupted during an altercation early Saturday at an off-campus house party.

MACOMB, IL — One person was killed and 10 others were wounded during an altercation that erupted in gunfire early Saturday at an off-campus college house party near Western Illinois University. Police said six of the injured were WIU students.

One person was pronounced dead at the scene of the party in the 500 block of North Johnson Street, about a half-mile from campus. Authorities are not releasing the name of the deceased person pending family notification, but did say Sunday they were not a WIU student.

According to the Macomb Police Department, the incident was isolated and there is no risk to the public. An investigation is ongoing with assistance from the Illinois State Police, among other law enforcement agencies.

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Police responded to the party at around 1:55 a.m. Saturday, following a call of shots fired. Many of the 10 people wounded had superficial gunshot wounds and were taken to McDonough District Hospital. Some of the victims were triaged at the hospital before being taken to area level one trauma centers by ambulance. Police said weather conditions prevented helicopter evacuation.

With the assistance of area law enforcement and hospital staff, MDH implemented lockdown procedures as a precautionary measure.

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Western Illinois University canceled all athletic activities scheduled for the weekend and said counseling was made available to students on Saturday.

"The Office of Public Safety suggests everyone be vigilant about being aware of their surroundings," the university said in a social media post after the shooting.

Police believe video or photos from the incident exist and are asking for assistance from the public. Citizens are encouraged to call Crime Stoppers at 309-836-3222, where all calls will remain anonymous. Video and photos can be emailed to citizenconcerns@macombpolice.com.

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