Crime & Safety
Kankakee County, IL Shooting: 2 in Custody After Shots Fired at Kids
Kankakee, IL – Gunfire erupted near a group of juveniles at a Kankakee park Monday afternoon, prompting a police response that ended with two people in custody and multiple firearms recovered. Authori
By Sophie Caldwell · 2026-10-13T18:19:59.208Z
Kankakee, IL – Gunfire erupted near a group of juveniles at a Kankakee park Monday afternoon, prompting a police response that ended with two people in custody and multiple firearms recovered. Authorities confirmed that no gunshot injuries were reported.
According to the Kankakee Police Department , officers responded to multiple reports of shots fired at approximately 2:50 p.m. Monday, Oct. 12, at Beckman Park, located at 1604 Cobb Boulevard.
Witnesses told investigators that two individuals allegedly fired toward a group of juveniles near the park's baseball fields before fleeing the area.
Two Taken Into Custody After Police Search
Responding officers located two individuals matching witness descriptions near East Duane Boulevard and Justine Drive.
Police said both individuals fled on foot when officers attempted to stop them. Officers subsequently detained an adult and a juvenile.
During a search of Beckman Park and the surrounding neighborhood, investigators recovered two handguns, three spent shell casings, a loaded magazine and additional ammunition.
An Illinois State Police K 9 team assisted officers and detectives with the search.
18 Year Old Arrested as Investigation Continues
Police identified the adult as Jerrell W. Wade, 18, of Kankakee. Wade was arrested on charges of aggravated unlawful use of a weapon and resisting a peace officer. He was transported to the Jerome Combs Detention Center.
The juvenile was also detained, but authorities have withheld the juvenile's identity.
Police Chief Kidwell commended responding officers, assisting agencies and community members for their cooperation during the investigation.
Authorities have not announced additional charges or provided a motive for the shooting.
The investigation remains ongoing. Anyone with information is encouraged to contact the Kankakee Police Department and reference case number 26 51479 .
All accused individuals are presumed innocent unless proven guilty in court.