16-Year-Old Erion Turner Identified as Victim in Tragic Champaign Shooting; Community Urged to Assist in Ongoing Investigation

CHAMPAIGN, Ill. — The Champaign community is reeling after a tragic shooting claimed the life of 16-year-old Erion Turner, a local teen who was fatally wounded in the early hours of Sunday, June 29, 2025. The incident also left another 16-year-old boy critically injured.

Champaign County Coroner Laurie Brauer confirmed that Erion Turner, a resident of Champaign, was pronounced dead just after midnight at the Carle Foundation Hospital Emergency Department in Urbana. An autopsy has been scheduled to determine the exact cause of death, and both the Champaign Police Department and the Champaign County Coroner’s Office are continuing to investigate the circumstances surrounding the incident.

The Shooting: What We Know So Far

At approximately 12:01 a.m., officers with the Champaign Police Department responded to reports of gunfire in the area of Holly Hill Drive, near Garden Hills Drive. When officers arrived, they discovered two teenage boys, both unconscious and suffering from life-threatening gunshot wounds, lying in a front yard.

First responders, including firefighters and police, rendered immediate medical assistance before the teens were transported to a nearby hospital. Tragically, Turner succumbed to his injuries shortly after arrival. The second teen remains hospitalized in critical condition as of Sunday morning.

Investigation and Public Appeal

In the aftermath of the shooting, police have launched a full investigation, canvassing the area for evidence and speaking to residents in hopes of piecing together what happened. Authorities believe community cooperation will be vital in identifying the perpetrator(s) and understanding the motive behind this senseless act of violence.

Residents with surveillance footage from the area or any witness accounts are strongly encouraged to come forward. The Champaign Police Department is urging anyone with information to call 217-351-4545. Tips can also be submitted anonymously to Champaign County Crime Stoppers by calling 217-373-8477 (TIPS), visiting their website, or using the P3 Tips mobile app.

A Growing Concern: Youth and Gun Violence

This incident underscores the continuing issue of gun violence among youth in Champaign and other communities across the nation. It comes at a time when the city is actively hosting annual gun-violence awareness events, aimed at addressing the root causes of such tragedies and promoting community-led solutions.

As the city mourns the loss of a young life, community leaders, residents, and families are once again reminded of the urgent need for action, healing, and prevention.

A Community in Mourning

Friends, family, and community members are already expressing heartbreak and disbelief on social media and in the streets. Erion Turner is remembered by those who knew him as a kind, bright young man with a promising future—a life taken far too soon.

A candlelight vigil is being planned, with details expected in the coming days as the community seeks a way to honor his memory and stand in support of the grieving families.