Peoria, IL – The Peoria Police Department is calling for urgent reform to Illinois’ juvenile justice system after a Sunday night shooting revealed that the three juveniles involved had a combined 27 prior arrests for serious crimes.
According to police, officers responded on October 12, 2025, to a shooting in the 2300 block of W. Antoinette, where a 22-year-old man was found with a gunshot wound to the head. During the investigation, officers located three juveniles hiding in a nearby residence along with multiple firearms, including a stolen handgun.
Peoria Police Chief Eric Echevarria stated that the juveniles, who allegedly ran from the scene and attempted to evade capture, have a lengthy history of gun-related and violent offenses, including burglary, aggravated battery, and vehicle hijacking.
In a public statement, Chief Echevarria criticized the state’s juvenile detention guidelines, saying they frequently prevent violent repeat offenders from being detained. He described the current system as “broken,” adding that it “fails to protect our communities” and “creates more victims.”
Echevarria credited the Peoria County State’s Attorney’s Office for challenging initial detention denials in this case, ensuring the juveniles were held due to the severity of their actions.
“The safety of Peoria is not negotiable,” Echevarria said, urging parents, legislators, and community members to take action to restore accountability and prevent further youth violence.