Dupage Policy Journal

Illinois state Sen. John Curran (R-Downers Grove) was saddened by the death of a man killed at a Juneteenth party in Willowbrook where 23 others were injured.

The senator implored those with information about the shooting to reach out to law enforcement.

"Our district is mourning the loss of life and injuries resulting from the violent incident in Willowbrook," Curran said in a June 19 Facebook post. "I’d like to thank our local law enforcement for their rapid and robust response and work to ensure that every available resource is being utilized to conduct a complete and thorough investigation. Our office is in regular communication with investigators and I strongly encourage everyone to cooperate and come forward with any information that may be helpful to bring justice for victims and safety to our community."

Curran praised local enforcement for responding to the shooting so quickly and perhaps preventing even more violence and injuries, while adding that his office is in contact with officials regarding the status of the investigation.

Police said that gunfire broke out shortly after midnight, according to a Chicago Sun-Times report. Witnesses later told investigators that before the shooting two fights had broken out between several teenage girls near the parking lot where the gathering was taking place and that the combatants had to be separated by onlookers and deputies.

In addition to the victim who was killed, authorities said the injuries suffered by surviving victims ranged from grazings to serious, with two of the shooting victims currently hospitalized and listed in critical condition. All of the victims were treated at area hospitals in nearby DuPage, Will and Cook counties.

Residents told police the party had been held at the venue annually for the last two years but added that, in light of the violence, they doubt the gathering will continue to be held going forward; the report said.