BPD: 14-year old facing weapon charges after shooting on Bloomington’s near east side

Posted on January 3, 2022
police car
Bloomington Police Chief Simington says investigators have recovered five weapons already in 2022. (Photo courtesy: WJBC/File)

By Blake Haas

BLOOMINGTON – A 14-year old juvenile remains behind bars on charges; he allegedly played a role in a shooting that injured another juvenile on Bloomington’s near east side.

On Dec. 27th, Bloomington Police responded to the 800 block of East Wood, near Emerson Park, where a 16-year old boy suffered a single gunshot wound to the torso.

According to a news release, the juvenile victim was transported to Carle BroMenn Medical Center, where he was considered in serious but stable condition.

On Monday, BPD investigators arrested a 14-year old boy at his residence as part of the shooting investigation.

Deputies allegedly discovered an illegal, stolen, and defaced firearm during the investigation.

Police say the juvenile was transported to the McLean County Juvenile Detention Center, where he faces charges of Aggravated Battery with a Firearm, Unlawful Use of a Weapon, Possession of a Stolen Firearm, and Defacing Identification Marks of a Firearm.

Authorities say the 16-year old boy is still considered in serious but stable condition.

“It is very unfortunate this tragedy occurred, but I am grateful this incident did not result in the loss of life,” Bloomington Police Chief Jamal Simington said. “Our thoughts are with the victim and his family, and we wish him a speedy recovery.”

Chief Simington said that only three days into 2022, officers have located five stolen firearms in Bloomington.

Blake Haas can be reached at [email protected].

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