Charles Gholson, a 38-year-old African American man, was shot on October 5, 2021, in the 400 block of S. Independence Avenue in Rockford, Illinois. The shooting occurred about 8:40 p.m.; Gholson suffered life-threatening injuries, was taken to a local hospital, and later died. Three other men, aged 30, 35, and 36, were also seriously injured and received medical attention either at the scene or at hospitals.

Rockford Police identified two primary suspects. Mario Perkins, 33, was arrested and charged with first-degree murder and aggravated battery and held at the Winnebago County Jail. A second man, Edmond Lilly, 31, was charged with first-degree murder and aggravated battery and was being sought by police; authorities asked the public for information on his whereabouts. Detectives from the Rockford Police Gang Unit led the investigation.

If anyone has information about the shooting, the victims, or Edmond Lilly’s location, please share what is known with law enforcement.