Tragic Shooting Near Pekin Airport Claims Lives of Two Young Men, Chase Rhodes and Dawson Reese; Suspect Memphis Rue Arrested After Gunfire Erupts Early Morning
PEKIN, IL – A peaceful morning in Pekin was shattered by violence early today as two young men were found dead following a shooting near the Pekin airport. The victims, identified as 21-year-olds Chase Rhodes and Dawson Reese, were discovered inside a home at approximately 6:00 a.m. after authorities responded to a series of 911 calls reporting gunfire around 4:30 a.m.
The Tazewell County Sheriff’s Office confirmed the tragic deaths after deputies arrived at the scene to find both victims had suffered gunshot wounds. Despite efforts by first responders, both Rhodes and Reese were pronounced dead at the scene. The circumstances surrounding the shooting remain under investigation, but law enforcement officials have made one arrest.
Memphis Rue, a 23-year-old man, was taken into custody at the scene of the crime. He is facing multiple charges, including two counts of first-degree murder. Although investigators are still piecing together the events leading to the fatal shooting, Sheriff Steve Thompson has assured the community that authorities are working diligently to uncover all the facts.
“This is a tragic loss for our community, and our hearts are with the families who are mourning the untimely deaths of two young men. We will continue to pursue justice for them,” Sheriff Thompson said in a statement released this morning.
The shooting has left the Pekin community in shock, as both victims were known for their vibrant personalities and close ties to friends and family. Rhodes and Reese were described by loved ones as kind, hardworking, and full of promise. Their deaths have been met with an outpouring of grief from the local community, with friends and family remembering them as individuals with bright futures.
As the investigation continues, many in Pekin are grappling with the realization that such a tragedy could occur in their quiet, close-knit town. The event has sparked conversations about gun violence and its devastating effects on families, friends, and communities.
A vigil is being planned to honor the memories of Rhodes and Reese, with details to be shared in the coming days. The community has rallied in support of the families, offering condolences and showing solidarity in the wake of this senseless loss. Local leaders are calling for a collective effort to support the grieving families and ensure that justice is served.
“We stand in grief with the families mourning this loss,” Sheriff Thompson said, highlighting the importance of unity during such a trying time.
At present, investigators are working to determine the motive behind the shooting and are asking anyone with information about the incident to come forward. Authorities are committed to bringing clarity and closure to this case.