Peoria, IL – A Peoria County Sheriff’s deputy was hospitalized late Saturday night after being shot during a traffic stop on the city’s west side, authorities confirmed.
According to the Peoria Police Department, the shooting happened around 9:52 p.m. Saturday, January 31, in the 1000 block of South Western Avenue. Deputies had conducted a traffic stop when a passenger fled on foot. During the ensuing pursuit, the suspect allegedly fired multiple rounds at a deputy, striking him twice.
The injured deputy was transported to a local hospital and is being treated for serious injuries. His condition has not been publicly updated.
Roughly two hours later, officers located the suspect—identified as 51-year-old Larry D. Bell—inside an abandoned building in the 1800 block of West Garden Street. While officers were taking him into custody, Bell reportedly suffered seizures and was taken to a hospital, where police say illegal drugs were found on him.
Following a search of the abandoned building, investigators recovered a handgun. After being released from the hospital, Bell was taken into custody and booked into the Peoria County Jail.
He faces multiple charges including attempted murder, aggravated battery with a firearm, armed violence, and several drug and weapons-related offenses.
The Peoria Police Department said the incident remains under investigation. Anyone with information about the shooting is urged to contact Peoria Police at (309) 673-4521 or Crime Stoppers at (309) 673-9000.
This article was produced by a journalist and may include AI-assisted input. All content is reviewed for accuracy and fairness.
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