Donald M. Woods was fatally shot on May 15, 2018, in the 200 block of Fourth Avenue near Sherman Street on Joliet’s southeast side. He was 24 years old and the Will County Coroner ruled that he died of gunshot wounds. Family and friends remembered Woods, known as Lil Man, for his joyful personality and close relationships.

Joliet police arrested 24-year-old Martell Ollie of Joliet three days later, on May 18, 2018. Ollie was charged with first-degree murder and held on $5 million bail. The case evolved through several legal maneuvers, including a requested change of venue and a substitution of judge; Ollie initially sought to represent himself and later hired the firm Chuck Bretz & Associates. He ultimately pleaded to second-degree murder and on November 9, 2020, received a 13-year sentence, with credit for 907 days already served and an agreement that he would serve 50% of the term; four pending drug cases were to run concurrently.

Reports say both Woods and Ollie were armed during a confrontation, and Ollie’s defense claimed self-defense, asserting Woods fired first; multiple witnesses were present though only Woods’ brother, Dohndray D. Woods, identified Ollie as the aggressor. If anyone knew Donald Woods or has information about the shooting, please come forward.