Anthony's Pub Issues Statement Acknowledging Murder Of 31-Year-Old Customer Over Weekend

JOLIET, IL — Anthony's Restaurant and Pub has issued a statement on social media in response to Sunday's early morning killing of 31-year-old Aaron Vidales, who was gunned down in a parking lot not far from 3151 Voyager Lane.

"This has been deeply upsetting for our team and our community," Anthony's said on Facebook. "Our thoughts are with the victim and their loved ones. Thank you to everyone who has reached out and checked in."

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As for the official statement, Anthony's explained, "We're heartbroken by what happened near our business last night. This is not something anyone ever wants to see in our community and our thoughts are with the victim and their loved ones. Many of you come here to relax, spend time with friends and feel at home. Incidents like this are deeply unsettling for all of us, including our team."

Anthony's went on to explain that "We are working closely with the Joliet Police Department and fully supporting their investigation. Out of respect for that process, we won't be sharing additional details right now. Please know that we take the safety of our guests and staff seriously and will continue to do everything we can to support a safe environment. We appreciate everyone who has reached out and checked in. Joliet is a strong community and we're all feeling this together."

The Will County Coroner's Office has identified the homicide victim as Aaron Vidales.

Back in 2016, Vidales was charged with the aggravated unlawful use of a weapon by a gang member, unlawful use of a weapon and possession of a firearm without an owner’s identification card, Joliet Patch reported at the time.

According to Joliet police spokesman Dwayne English, at 1:51 a.m. Sunday, an officer in the area of Anthony’s Restaurant and Pub at 3151 Voyager Lane heard multiple gunshots coming from the nearby Dollar Tree parking lot at 2900 Colorado Avenue.

Officers immediately responded and found a 31-year-old man suffering from a gunshot wound to the head. He was taken by the Joliet Fire Department to St. Joseph Medical Center, where he was later pronounced dead.