URBANA, Ill. — A tragic shooting in Urbana has left one man dead and triggered an ongoing police investigation that has led to an arrest. Authorities responded to the scene early Friday morning to find a man with serious injuries from a gunshot wound.
Emergency responders rushed the victim to Carle Foundation Hospital, where he was pronounced dead shortly after arriving, despite efforts to save his life. The victim was identified as 52-year-old Benancio Crowley, a resident of Champaign. An autopsy has been scheduled to determine the official cause of death.
As investigators pieced together the events leading up to the shooting, police identified 19-year-old Charles Lake as a suspect. He was taken into custody Friday afternoon in a different location, specifically in the 1900 block of Blackthorn Drive in Champaign. Authorities have stated that Lake was not present at the scene when officers first responded, raising questions about the context of the shooting.
Urbana Police, along with the Illinois State Police Crime Scene Investigators, are deepening their inquiry into the matter. They are focused on gathering evidence and uncovering the circumstances surrounding the tragedy. Local law enforcement is reaching out to the community for assistance, urging anyone who may have been in the vicinity during the early morning hours to come forward with information.
Authorities are particularly interested in any potential witnesses or those who may have observed unusual behavior on the night of the shooting. Additionally, anyone with surveillance footage from the area is encouraged to contact the Urbana Police Department. Tips can also be submitted anonymously through Crime Stoppers.
As the investigation unfolds, community members are left to grapple with a sense of loss and concern over safety in their neighborhoods. The police have committed to providing updates as more information becomes available, emphasizing their dedication to uncovering the truth behind this violent incident.