JOLIET, Ill. — A tragic incident unfolded Sunday morning in a Joliet home, where a woman and her 4-year-old son were discovered deceased. Local authorities reported that a man, described as a part-time resident of the house, was taken into custody in connection with the shooting, though he has not yet been formally charged.
The shooting occurred at around 7 a.m. in the 700 block of Garnsey Avenue, prompting multiple 911 calls reporting gunfire in the area. During the investigation, police found the bodies of a 36-year-old woman and her son in the backyard, both suffering from apparent gunshot wounds. Sadly, they were pronounced dead at the scene.
Joliet Police Chief William Evans indicated that there may be a domestic relationship between the shooter and the victims. While details are still emerging, the extent of this relationship is under investigation. The 29-year-old male suspect was found at the residence with a self-inflicted gunshot wound to the ankle and was later hospitalized. His injuries are not considered life-threatening.
Witnesses reported seeing a shirtless man flee the area shortly after the gunshots were heard, discarding a firearm near nearby train tracks. This led authorities to believe the suspect attempted to escape the scene before being located by police.
In a separate development, another child, an 8-year-old boy with special needs, was found unharmed in a bedroom within the home. He was transported to a local medical center for evaluation but did not suffer any physical injuries.
Evidence gathered at the crime scene included a firearm and spent shell casings, which are believed to be linked to the shooting. As the investigation continues, police are urging anyone with information or video footage related to the incident to come forward.
Community members are still in shock as details of the incident emerge, highlighting the tragic impact on local families and raising questions about domestic violence. Those who wish to provide tips anonymously can contact local crime stoppers or reach out to the Joliet Police Department’s Investigation Division.