The city of Urbana, Illinois, is reeling after a tragic home invasion and shooting that resulted in the deaths of two individuals, including a 7-year-old child. The tragic incident unfolded on the evening of Saturday, February 8, 2025, in the 900 block of Lanore Drive, just south of the Brookens Administrative Center, near the intersection of Lanore Drive and Washington Street. Urbana residents, shocked by the violence, are left grappling with the heartbreak of losing innocent lives in such a senseless act.
At approximately 8:00 p.m., the Urbana Police Department (UPD) responded to a report of a shooting with injuries in the area. Upon arriving at the scene, officers discovered a 7-year-old child, later identified as Bryson, suffering from gunshot wounds. The child was rushed to the hospital for immediate medical attention, but tragically, despite all efforts to save him, Bryson succumbed to his injuries. The loss of a young child in such a violent act has sent shockwaves through the community, with residents expressing their grief and disbelief at the senseless loss of life.
The heartbreaking discovery did not end there. Shortly after Bryson was transported to the hospital, officers located a 43-year-old man near the scene who was also suffering from gunshot wounds. He was immediately transported to the hospital for treatment, but like the young child, he was pronounced dead shortly after arriving. Authorities have confirmed that both victims sustained gunshot wounds, though further details about the circumstances surrounding their deaths have not been disclosed.
The identities of the victims have not been released to the public as of yet, pending notification of their families. However, the loss of life in this tragedy is felt deeply by those who knew the victims, and the community at large. The circumstances surrounding this tragic shooting have left many searching for answers, with the Urbana Police Department working tirelessly to investigate the incident and bring justice to the victims and their families.
According to authorities, the shooting is believed to be the result of a home invasion. The details of how the event unfolded, including the identity of the perpetrator or perpetrators and the motive behind the shooting, have not been revealed. The Urbana Police Department’s Criminal Investigations Division has taken over the case, and investigators are actively pursuing leads. The department is urging the community to come forward with any information that could assist in solving the case.
In the days following the shooting, investigators have been canvassing the area around Lanore Drive in search of witnesses and video surveillance footage that could provide crucial information. With so many people living in the area and many local businesses likely to have exterior security cameras, authorities are encouraging residents and business owners to contact the Urbana Police Department if they have any relevant footage that could help in the investigation.
The urgency of the investigation is underscored by the fact that this shooting follows another fatal incident just one day earlier. On Friday, February 7, 2025, an 18-year-old was fatally shot in Urbana in an unrelated shooting. The city, still reeling from the violence of the previous evening, is now left to deal with yet another senseless tragedy. The police are working around the clock to determine if there is any connection between the two shootings, although authorities have not confirmed any links between the incidents.
As investigators continue their work, the Urbana Police Department has emphasized the importance of community cooperation. They are urging anyone who may have witnessed the shooting or who has information related to the case to come forward. Tips can be submitted anonymously to Champaign County Crime Stoppers, and a $5,000 reward is being offered for any information that leads to an arrest in the homicide investigation. The Crime Stoppers hotline can be reached at (217) 373-8477, and tips can also be submitted online.
For residents who may have seen or heard something suspicious in the area around the time of the shooting, their cooperation could prove invaluable in solving the case. The Urbana Police Department’s non-emergency line at (217) 384-2320 is also available for anyone who has information or may be able to assist with the investigation. Authorities are continuing to review all available evidence and are hopeful that new details will emerge that could help bring closure to the victims’ families.
The tragic shooting of Bryson and the 43-year-old man has left the Urbana community grappling with grief, fear, and uncertainty. The loss of an innocent child, especially in such a violent manner, has caused deep emotional pain for many residents. As the investigation into the incident continues, the community is coming together to support the victims’ families, share their condolences, and honor the memories of the lives that were taken so prematurely.
The tragedy has also sparked broader discussions about safety and crime in the area, with many residents expressing concern about the impact of violence on their neighborhoods. As the investigation unfolds, the Urbana Police Department has assured the public that they are working diligently to bring those responsible to justice. Community leaders and local organizations are offering support to those affected by the shooting, helping to provide resources and counseling for those struggling with the emotional toll of the tragedy.
The Urbana Police Department has not ruled out any potential leads, and they are committed to keeping the community informed as new details emerge. In the coming days, further updates on the investigation will be provided, as detectives continue to work tirelessly to piece together the events leading to this horrific crime. The community remains hopeful that justice will be served, and that the person or persons responsible for this senseless violence will be held accountable.
As Urbana mourns the loss of Bryson and the 43-year-old man, the city is coming together to show solidarity and support for those affected. The tragic shooting has highlighted the need for continued vigilance, community cooperation, and a commitment to reducing violence in neighborhoods across the area. Residents are encouraged to stay vigilant, report any suspicious activity, and work together to ensure the safety and well-being of their community.
The people of Urbana stand united in the face of this tragedy, committed to honoring the victims’ memories and ensuring that such senseless acts of violence do not define their community.
