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Kankakee leaders urge community cooperation after New Year’s shootings; police urge witnesses to come forward
Summary
Council members and the mayor urged residents to help investigators after multiple shootings around New Year’s; officials described ongoing investigations and offered victim‑assistance options and community supports.
City leaders on Monday urged residents to help investigators after a series of shootings over the New Year’s period that left multiple victims dead and wounded.
Alderman Jones said the city must “keep praying for our city” and pressed neighbors to speak to young people, check backpacks and be more involved at home. Jones described the emotional toll on families and first responders and called for collective action by community and civic groups.
Mayor Curtis and other officials emphasized that investigators need firsthand accounts to identify suspects. “Ultimately, to get the offenders ... they have to have firsthand account,” the mayor said on the council floor, urging witnesses to come forward and offering city assistance and protection for those who cooperate. The mayor added that a code of silence “doesn't work. It doesn't protect our community.”
Chief Kidwell and the police department provided related operational updates during the meeting: two recent Police Training Institute graduates were introduced, and the department said it currently has approximately 67 officers with three more trainees in the academy. The mayor noted Kankakee County Sheriff’s Office deputies were among the first on scene at a recent shooting because they were nearby.
Support for victims and funeral assistance
Council members noted community fundraising and city assistance options. Alderman Audra Monroe Marshall said a GoFundMe page exists for two young men killed, and the council discussed directing aid through the city's existing victim-assistance line item (previously identified in the record as funds administered through a local organization) or by providing donations directly to the funeral home. The council noted the state’s attorney’s victim‑assistance office as another avenue for support.
City programs and next steps
Director Watson announced the relaunched private security incentive program, which reimburses eligible residents for exterior cameras and lights; applications and QR codes are available on city and ECDA social media pages. Mayor Curtis and other council members asked residents to contact police with tips and to use city resources or community partners if they do not wish to speak directly with investigators.
Ending
Officials said earlier homicide investigations had led to arrests in some cases, demonstrating the value of tips and cooperative witnesses. Council members reiterated condolences to victims’ families and encouraged anyone with information to contact investigators or violence‑prevention partners.
