Seventeen-year-old Joel W. Eberle Jr., known as JuJu, was shot and killed in Willmar, Minnesota, on the night of Monday, May 12, 2025. Officers responded to reports of shots fired on the 1800 block of 7th Avenue Southeast around 11 p.m. and found an unresponsive male teenager; despite life-saving attempts he was pronounced dead at the scene.

Joel was born December 4, 2007, attended ALC High School and belonged to First Covenant Church in Willmar. He enjoyed drawing, rap music, spending time at Epik, and favored ramen noodles with hot sauce and lemon pepper. Family and friends remember his infectious smile and protective nature.

Police describe the shooting as not appearing to be random and say they do not believe there is a danger to the public. The investigation remained active in mid-May and no arrests had been announced. If anyone has information that could help explain what happened to Joel, please come forward to assist the investigation.