Crime & Safety
Winnebago County, IL Shooting: Rockford Man Charged With Murder
Rockford, IL – A 22 year old man was killed in an early morning shooting Monday inside a Rockford residence, and police say a 36 year old man is now jailed on first degree murder and firearm charges.
By Miles Carter · 2026-10-05T22:37:51.378Z
Rockford, IL – A 22 year old man was killed in an early morning shooting Monday inside a Rockford residence, and police say a 36 year old man is now jailed on first degree murder and firearm charges.
According to the Rockford Police Department , officers responded at approximately 1:40 a.m. Monday to the 1400 block of Charles Street for a report of a gunshot victim inside a home.
Officers arrived and found the 22 year old suffering from multiple gunshot wounds, police said. He was transported to a local hospital, where he later died. Authorities did not identify the victim in Monday's release.
Rockford Police detectives continued investigating and identified 36 year old Montreal Smart of Rockford as the suspect, according to the department.
After reviewing the case, the Winnebago County State's Attorney's Office authorized two counts of first degree murder against Smart. He also faces charges of possession of a firearm by a repeat felon, possession of a stolen firearm and unlawful use of a weapon by a felon.
Police said Smart is in custody and has been lodged in the Winnebago County Jail.
Authorities cautioned that the investigation remains active and additional arrests or charges could occur.
Anyone with information is asked to contact Rockford Police at 815 966 2900 . Anonymous tips can also be submitted to Rockford Area Crime Stoppers at 815 963 7867 .
The charges against Smart are accusations. He is presumed innocent unless proven guilty in court.