Tragedy in Mt. Vernon: Two Men Identified in Deadly Mass Shooting on South 15th Street
MT. VERNON, IL – The Mt. Vernon Police Department has released the identities of two men killed in a tragic mass shooting that occurred early Friday morning in the 600 block of South 15th Street. The victims have been identified as 20-year-old Zomarrius Williams of Mt. Vernon and 26-year-old Demonta Woodward of Mounds.
The city of Mt. Vernon is reeling from the devastating aftermath of a mass shooting that unfolded in the early hours of Friday, shattering the peace of a quiet neighborhood and leaving two young men dead and several others wounded. The tragic incident, which took place in the 600 block of South 15th Street just after 2 a.m., has sparked an outpouring of grief, anger, and calls for justice and change.
According to the Mt. Vernon Police Department, officers responded to reports of multiple gunshots in the area and arrived on scene to discover a chaotic and heart-wrenching scene. First responders found multiple gunshot victims, and despite efforts to save them, 20-year-old Zomarrius Williams and 26-year-old Demonta Woodward were pronounced dead at the scene.
Several other individuals were transported to area hospitals with varying degrees of injuries, though their names and conditions have not yet been publicly released.
Authorities have launched an intensive investigation into the shooting, which they believe may have stemmed from an altercation that escalated violently. Police are urging anyone with information to come forward, and have been canvassing the area, speaking with witnesses, and reviewing surveillance footage in hopes of identifying suspects and determining a motive.
“We are working around the clock to piece together exactly what happened and bring those responsible to justice,” said Mt. Vernon Police Chief Trent Page in a press briefing. “This level of violence is unacceptable, and we need the public’s help to ensure our community remains safe.”
As the investigation unfolds, the families of Zomarrius Williams and Demonta Woodward are left grappling with unimaginable grief. Both men were described by loved ones as kind-hearted, ambitious, and full of life. Zomarrius, affectionately known as “Zoe” by friends and family, had recently celebrated his 20th birthday and was pursuing a career in automotive mechanics. He was a Mt. Vernon native, remembered for his loyalty, his big smile, and the dreams he held for a better future.
“Zoe was the light of our family,” said his older sister in a statement. “He was funny, smart, and had a heart of gold. He didn’t deserve this. None of them did.”
Demonta Woodward, a 26-year-old from Mounds, was visiting friends in Mt. Vernon when the shooting occurred. He had recently begun a new job and was planning to relocate to be closer to his daughter. Friends say he was hardworking, protective, and deeply devoted to his family.
“He was a good man,” said a close friend. “He worked hard, kept to himself, and just wanted to make life better for his daughter. His death is not just a loss for us, but for everyone who knew what kind of person he was.”
The broader community has responded to the tragedy with candlelight vigils, social media tributes, and calls to action. Local leaders are urging unity in the face of violence and emphasizing the need for stronger community programs, mental health support, and anti-violence initiatives.
Jefferson County officials have promised full support in the ongoing investigation, and several neighboring law enforcement agencies have offered resources to assist with the case. Meanwhile, Mt. Vernon residents are being reminded of the importance of cooperation and vigilance.
This tragedy marks another heartbreaking chapter in the ongoing struggle against gun violence in small towns and urban centers alike. As the families of Zomarrius Williams and Demonta Woodward prepare to lay their loved ones to rest, the Mt. Vernon community stands in solemn solidarity, united in mourning, and determined not to let their names be forgotten.