19-Year-Old Ethan Austin Fatally Shot Outside Rockford Liquor Store; Andre Moreland Charged with First-Degree Murder
ROCKFORD, Ill. (May 9, 2025) — A young Rockford man is dead and another is behind bars following a deadly shooting early Friday morning that unfolded in the parking lot of a local liquor store. Authorities have identified the victim as Ethan Austin, a 19-year-old who tragically lost his life following an altercation that escalated into gunfire.
According to the Rockford Police Department, officers were alerted just after 12:20 a.m. when Austin arrived at a local hospital with multiple gunshot wounds. Despite emergency efforts by medical staff, he was pronounced dead shortly after his arrival.
Investigators quickly determined that the shooting had occurred outside Broadway Food & Liquor, located at 2710 Broadway. Detectives say the incident began as a fight between individuals in the store’s parking lot before gunfire erupted. It remains unclear what sparked the confrontation, but police are working to determine whether it was random or connected to an ongoing dispute.
Eyewitnesses reported hearing shouting, followed by the sound of several gunshots. Surveillance footage from nearby businesses is being reviewed as part of the ongoing investigation.
Later that same day, police arrested Andre Moreland, 40, in the 3200 block of Maryland Road, several miles from the shooting scene. Authorities say Moreland was taken into custody without incident and has been charged with first-degree murder. He was also found to have multiple outstanding warrants unrelated to the current case.
“This was a senseless act of violence that took the life of a young man with his future ahead of him,” said Rockford Police Chief Carla Redd during a press briefing. “We are committed to seeking justice for Ethan and providing support to his grieving loved ones.”
Friends and family of Ethan Austin are mourning his sudden loss, remembering him as a kind-hearted and ambitious young man. “He had goals, plans, and so much life left to live,” said a close family friend on social media. “This should’ve never happened.”
Ethan had recently expressed interest in pursuing a trade career and was known for his quiet demeanor and strong work ethic. His death has left a painful void in his community.
The fatal shooting has intensified concerns about ongoing violence in Rockford, where several shootings involving young victims have occurred in recent months. Local leaders are calling for increased community intervention programs and support for at-risk youth.
Andre Moreland remains in custody at the Winnebago County Jail as he awaits a court appearance. Police have not confirmed whether he has obtained legal representation.
Anyone with additional information about the case is urged to contact the Rockford Police Department or submit anonymous tips to Rockford Area Crime Stoppers.
Counseling and victim support services are being made available to Ethan Austin’s family through local crisis response teams.