Teen Girl Killed in July 4th Shooting at Alton Apartment Complex
A 17-year-old girl was fatally shot early Friday morning during an argument outside an apartment in Alton, Illinois—marking a heartbreaking end to July 4 festivities
🕒 Incident Details
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The shooting occurred at approximately 2 a.m. Friday in the 900 block of Oakwood Avenue, within the Oakwood Estates Housing Complex
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Witnesses say two men argued outside an apartment building. Amid the confrontation, a shot was fired, traveling through the window and striking the teenage girl in the head while she was inside
🚨 Emergency Response & Medical Action
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First responders found the 17-year-old with critical injuries. She was rushed to OSF St. Anthony’s Medical Center, where an ARCH helicopter ambulance met her. Within minutes, she was airlifted to St. Louis Children’s Hospital for critical care
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Despite life-saving efforts, her injuries proved fatal, and police later confirmed she did not survive .
⚖️ Investigation Underway
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Alton police have identified a person of interest but haven’t made an arrest yet
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Police Chief Jarrett Ford described the event as “yet another senseless shooting with an innocent life lost” and extended condolences to the victim’s family
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Authorities are urging anyone with information—including details about the altercation or those two men—to call 618‑463‑3505 ext. 671 or anonymously through 618‑465‑5948
🌙 Community Impact
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The fatal shooting has rattled residents, especially on a holiday when they expected celebration, not tragedy.
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Questions are emerging about neighborhood safety and potential preventive measures to curb future incidents.
🔍 What’s Next
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Police continue gathering witness statements, reviewing video footage, and exploring all possible leads in a bid to locate the shooter.
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The investigation remains active, and officials promise updates once more concrete information becomes available.
This remains an open investigation. Authorities are appealing to any witnesses or residents with relevant information—no matter how small—to come forward