Peoria, IL – A late-night traffic stop in Peoria ended with two arrests after officers allegedly found a loaded rifle inside a vehicle Thursday night, October 16, 2025.
According to the Peoria Police Department, officers conducted a traffic stop around 11:14 p.m. near South Louisa Street and West Howett Street for a moving violation. During the stop, police made contact with two occupants and developed probable cause to search the vehicle. Officers reportedly discovered a loaded .22 caliber AR-15 style rifle inside.
The occupants, identified as 48-year-old Demetrius L. Crawley and 55-year-old Zanita S. Ward, were arrested and charged with Aggravated Unlawful Use of a Weapon, Unlawful Possession of a Firearm, Unlawful Possession of Firearm Ammunition, and No FOID (Firearm Owner’s Identification Card).
Crawley and Ward were transported to the Peoria County Jail, police said.
Authorities are asking anyone with information about violent crimes to contact the Peoria Police Department at (309) 673-4521 or submit anonymous tips through tip411 or Crime Stoppers at (309) 673-9000.
All suspects are presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.
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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