Kankakee, IL – A local grocery store parking lot became the scene of an alleged shootout Sunday, leaving two men hospitalized and resulting in the arrest of a convicted felon. Police say the situation unfolded just after noon, drawing a swift response from officers.
According to the Kankakee Police Department, officers responded to the 1700 block of E. Maple Street at approximately 12:33 p.m. following reports of a fight and multiple gunshots. At the scene, officers discovered two men suffering from gunshot wounds and a discarded handgun beneath a vehicle in the parking lot. The 23-year-old victim, who holds a valid FOID/CCL license, informed police he had fired in self-defense and surrendered his firearm—a Glock .45 caliber handgun—after officers arrived.
Authorities allege that Hernan Carmona, 22, of Kankakee, was the initial aggressor. According to police, Carmona suffered a gunshot wound to the ankle, while a second gunshot victim, a 31-year-old man, was also found nearby. Both were transported to local hospitals for treatment, and Carmona was later transferred to Loyola Medical Center.
Video surveillance reportedly confirmed Carmona initiated the confrontation, and police allege he handed his weapon to an unidentified accomplice before fleeing the scene. On Thursday, July 11, following his hospital discharge, Carmona was arrested on charges of aggravated battery – discharge of a firearm, attempted armed robbery, and unlawful possession of a weapon by a felon. Authorities note Carmona was on active parole for prior firearm offenses at the time of the shooting.
The investigation remains ongoing, and police urge anyone with information to contact the Kankakee Police Investigations Division or leave an anonymous tip with Kankakee County Crime Stoppers.
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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