Kankakee, IL – New details were released Tuesday regarding a weekend shooting on the city’s east side that left one man hospitalized and prompted an ongoing investigation by local and federal authorities.
According to the Kankakee Police Department, officers were dispatched around 5:51 p.m. Sunday, December 21, to the 1200 block of East Oak Street following reports of shots fired. While en route, police were informed that a male gunshot victim had arrived at a nearby apartment seeking help.
Officers located Travis L. Hayes, a 35-year-old man from Kankakee, suffering from a single gunshot wound. Police rendered first aid until Kankakee Fire Department paramedics arrived and transported Hayes to Hayes Regional Medical Center, where he was treated for what authorities described as a non-life-threatening injury.
Investigators say Hayes and an unidentified accomplice were allegedly attempting to forcibly enter an apartment when a struggle occurred between Hayes and the resident. During that altercation, the resident reportedly discharged a firearm, striking Hayes. Police stated the resident remained on scene, cooperated fully with officers, and surrendered the firearm, which was taken into evidence.
The resident, identified as a 47-year-old male, provided a statement to investigators. Police noted that no arrests have been announced at this time.
Authorities said the incident remains under active investigation. The firearm involved will be submitted for tracing through the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF). Once the investigation is complete, the case will be forwarded to the Kankakee County State’s Attorney’s Office for final review.
Anyone who witnessed the incident or has additional information is encouraged to contact the Kankakee Police Department at 815-933-0426.
Kankakee Police Chief Christopher Kidwell said the department is committed to a thorough and transparent investigation.
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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