Merian L. Smith was a 15-year-old sophomore at Peoria Central High School when he was shot on November 7, 2022, in the 500 block of West Gift Avenue in Peoria and later pronounced brain dead at 10:11 a.m. on November 9, 2022. Known as Jack, he was active in his community—cutting grass, shoveling snow for neighbors—and participated in Rising Sun Christian Church as a Praise Dancer and in the Men’s Choir. He also played on the Central Lions Football team.

Shot Spotter recorded three alerts and a total of 21 rounds at the scene. The investigation produced multiple arrests: an 18-year-old who was a juvenile at the time faces first-degree murder and weapons charges; 18-year-old Erick D. Jackson faces first-degree murder charges; 19-year-old Breon K. Smith was arrested on driving and related charges; and a juvenile passenger was charged with unlawful use of a weapon and related firearm possession counts. The Peoria Police Department is asking anyone with information to come forward.

If anyone knew Merian or has information about the shooting on West Gift Avenue, please share what you know with investigators.