MACOMB, Ill. — The Illinois State Police has finished its investigation into a March 16 incident where police shot and killed a 4-year-old boy and armed suspect in Macomb. It now heads to the McDonough County State's Attorney, who will consider whether any further action needs to be taken.
Back on Saturday, March 16 around 10 p.m., the Macomb Police Department responded to an apartment at the 900 block of N. Charles Street for an active domestic violence incident. According to a March 17 press release, police noticed blood in a common area of the complex and forcibly entered the unit after hearing screams from inside.
After reviewing body camera footage, evidence, witness interviews and autopsy reports, ISP findings said police encountered the suspect holding a knife before he ducked out of officers' view and emerged holding a 4-year-old boy as a human shield. Police say the suspect was holding a knife around the child's throat and another around his waist.
ISP says a Macomb officer fired one shot that killed both the child and the suspect, who has been identified as 57-year-old Anthony George. McDonough County Coroner Eric Jameson told News 8 that there was no relation between the two.
Family members came forward later and identified the boy as 4-year-old Terrell Miller. He's remembered as a sweet kid who loved trains and Spider-Man. He was a miracle baby for his mom, who family members say had difficulties getting pregnant before Terrell. Those who knew him said he always had a big smile on his face.
Macomb Police Chief Jeff Hamer will also conduct an internal investigation into the incident, according to a press release from the department. The department announced that ISP had concluded its investigation and said they would continue to provide updates as information becomes available.
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