Two teenagers have been arrested after five members of the same family were killed and two others were wounded in what authorities described as a targeted series of shootings in Illinois.
The attacks unfolded at multiple locations in the East St. Louis area, according to an Illinois State Police news release shared Sunday, July 12.
The five people killed were identified as 74-year-old Patricia A. May, 49-year-old Cherie L. May, 24-year-old Devin D. May, 25-year-old Shania W. Thompson and 21-year-old Quentin L. Thompson.
Authorities have not publicly explained the exact relationships among the victims, but confirmed they were all members of the same family.
Two additional relatives were injured in the shootings. Officials have not released further details about their conditions.
Police later located two teenage suspects, ages 15 and 16, and used a Precision Immobilization Technique, commonly known as a PIT maneuver, to stop their vehicle.
At least one of the teens is believed to have played a direct role in the shootings, according to reports citing police.
Investigators are now working with the State’s Attorney’s Office to determine what charges will be filed against the two suspects.
Authorities said there is no known ongoing threat to the public.
Illinois State Police Director Brendan Kelly condemned the killings during a press conference.
“It’s terrible. It’s evil. But it will not keep this city down,” Kelly said, according to the Associated Press.
The investigation remains active, and police said more information will be released as it becomes available.
