Joliet, Illinois is reeling from a horrific crime that left seven people shot dead across two separate homes, and authorities have launched a manhunt for the suspect. Police Chief Bill Evans revealed at a news conference that officers were called to the 2200 block of West Acres Road after several people were found dead in two neighboring houses. The authorities believe the victims were all related and that they knew the suspected shooter, identified as Romeo Nance.
Police are also linking Sunday’s fatal shooting at the Pheasant Run Apartments and the shooting of a 42-year-old man in Joliet, to the same suspect. The red Toyota Camry associated with Nance was sighted at both crime scenes. Nance, who is believed to be driving a vehicle with Illinois license plate Q730412, stands 6 feet 2 inches tall and weighs 160 pounds, according to authorities.
Nance is being sought by police after the registration of his home address on Acres Road was found in prior arrest records. He had been arrested in connection with a 2023 shooting case involving a woman. Furthermore, Nance is out on bond in that case and is awaiting trial.
The incidents have left the community shaken, with neighbors expressing disbelief and fear at the seemingly random and senseless violence. Laura Bane, a resident living near the crime scene, expressed her shock and worry for her young daughter, stating, “It’s frightening that this is so close to home.”
Investigators discovered the tragic scene on Monday as they pursued a lead from the earlier shooting incidents. Will County Sheriff’s Office Deputy Chief Dan Jungles said the detectives identified a house on the same block as the car’s registered owner. Upon visiting, they found a related house across the street and the horrifying discovery of multiple victims inside.
Police are urging anyone who sees Nance to call the authorities immediately, considering him to be armed and dangerous. The community is grappling with the devastating loss of multiple lives while grappling with horror and disbelief at the acts of violence.