Springfield, Illinois – The Illinois State Police have released body camera footage of a fatal shooting that took place on Interstate 55, involving ISP troopers and a Springfield man. The incident, which occurred on the afternoon of February 24, resulted in the death of Trayvon Cornelius Little, 37.
The video footage, shared on YouTube, captures the moment when Little pointed a firearm at the first arriving ISP trooper. The trooper had pulled up behind Little’s car on the shoulder of I-55 northbound, near Lexington. Little later engaged in gunfire with the troopers, resulting in his fatal injury and subsequent death.
In the footage, Little is seen crossing the highway and aiming at a vehicle traveling southbound on I-55. An investigation later confirmed that Little had fired a shot from inside his vehicle towards another vehicle before the troopers arrived at the scene. Troopers can be heard repeatedly instructing Little to “get on the ground” and “drop the weapon.”
During the incident, several individuals were present around Little’s vehicle. A female passenger was later observed in the back seat of one of the vehicles parked on the shoulder. Fortunately, no other injuries were reported as a result of the altercation.
Following consultation and authorization by the McLean County State’s Attorney, the Illinois State Police decided to release the video footage to the public. The family of Trayvon Cornelius Little was given the opportunity to review the video prior to its public release, although it is unclear whether they elected to do so.
As the ISP’s Division of Internal Investigation continues to look into the matter, no charges have been brought forth in the case. For those interested, the body camera footage can be viewed on the Illinois State Police’s YouTube page, with a caution for viewer discretion.
Inquiries can be directed to Steven Spearie at 217-622-1788 or sspearie@sj-r.com. Additional updates may be available on twitter.com/@StevenSpearie.