Chicago Man, 54, Arrested In Halloween Night Slaying Of Matteson Man, Beloved Violence Interventionist

CHICAGO HEIGHTS, IL — A Chicago man has been arrested in connection with the Halloween night shooting death of a passionate leader in violence prevention and intervention.

Andre Thomas, 57, of Matteson, was found with multiple gunshot wounds Oct. 31 at the office of Integrity & Fidelity, the agency he led as CEO and executive director, according to Chicago Alderman David Moore.

Chicago Heights police were called to the 400 block of W. 14th Street at 9:24 p.m., in response to a gunshot detection alert. Thomas was taken by the Chicago Heights Fire Department to a local hospital, where he was pronounced dead.

Police on Monday said the first week of the investigation led to the identification of multiple persons of interest, including Alex D. Morris, 54, of Chicago.

On Nov. 6, Chicago Heights Police and the South Suburban Major Crimes Task Force with the assistance of the Chicago Police Department, located Morris and arrested him without incident in the area of 95th Street and Perry Avenue in Chicago.

On Nov. 8, the Cook County State’s Attorney’s Office approved charges of first-degree murder against Morris.

Morris was processed and is scheduled to appear in the Circuit Court of Cook County, Sixth Municipal District in Markham on Nov. 10.

"This is an unimaginable loss, not only for his family, friends, and colleagues, but also for the countless individuals and communities whose lives he touched through his leadership, commitment, and service," said Chicago Alderman David Moore on social media following Thomas' death.

The Crisis Center for South Suburbia also spoke of Thomas' death as a "heartbreaking reminder" of the impact of violence on communities. The non-profit community organization provides emergency shelter and other essential services for individuals and families victimized by domestic violence and addresses the societal issues that contribute to domestic violence.

"Andre dedicated his life to serving others, preventing violence, and creating safer, stronger communities," the center shared on social media. "His loss is a heartbreaking reminder of the violence that continues to impact our neighborhoods and those working tirelessly to make a difference. We extend our deepest condolences to Andre’s family, colleagues, and all whose lives he touched.

"We stand in solidarity with our fellow community organizations and frontline advocates who work every day to break cycles of violence, support those affected, and create a future rooted in safety, dignity, and hope. Together, we remain committed to building communities where everyone can live free from violence."

Police said Monday that information regarding the additional persons of interest as well as specifics of the investigation will not be released at this time as the investigation is ongoing.