Crime
7-year-old child killed in Urbana home invasion identified
Urbana, IL – The Urbana Police Department is investigating a fatal home invasion and shooting that left two people dead, including a 7-year-old child, on Saturday evening, February 8, 2025.
Officers responded to a report of a shooting with injuries in the 900 block of Lanore Drive shortly before 8:00 p.m.
The location is situated just south of the Brookens Administrative Center, near the intersection of Lanore Drive and Washington Street.
Upon arrival, officers discovered a 7-year-old child, identified as Darnell “DJ” Wicks, suffering from gunshot wounds. The child was immediately transported to the hospital but tragically succumbed to their injuries.
Shortly after the child was taken for emergency medical treatment, officers located a 43-year-old Melvin Braxton near the scene, also suffering from gunshot wounds.
He was transported to the hospital, where he was later pronounced deceased.
The identities of both victims are being withheld pending notification of their families.
Authorities believe the shooting was the result of a home invasion, though additional details surrounding the circumstances have not yet been released.
The Urbana Police Department’s Criminal Investigations Division has taken over the case and continues to actively investigate.
This tragic incident comes just one day after an 18-year-old was fatally shot in Urbana in an unrelated shooting on Friday night.
Investigators are currently canvassing the area in search of witnesses and video surveillance footage that could provide critical information.
Residents and business owners with exterior security cameras in the area are urged to contact the Urbana Police Department.
Anyone with information regarding this case is asked to contact the Urbana Police Department’s non-emergency line at (217) 384-2320.
To remain anonymous, individuals can submit tips to Champaign County Crime Stoppers through the following methods:
📞 Call: (217) 373-8477
Crime Stoppers is offering a $5,000 reward for any tip leading to an arrest in a homicide investigation.
This remains an active and ongoing investigation. Further updates will be provided as more information becomes available.
Fort Wayne, IN – The Fort Wayne Police Department (FWPD) has arrested a 16-year-old male suspect in connection with a fatal shooting that claimed the life of Sincere Sole, a teenage girl, on Monday evening.
The suspect faces charges of felony murder and robbery related to the incident.
FWPD officers responded to a 911 call regarding a shooting at approximately 8:00 p.m. on Monday, February 5, 2025. The shooting occurred at the Black Pine Flats apartment complex on Fayette Drive.
Upon arrival, officers discovered Sincere Sole suffering from a gunshot wound.
Emergency medical personnel transported her to a nearby hospital in critical condition, but despite life-saving efforts, she was pronounced dead shortly after arrival.
Following an overnight investigation, the Fort Wayne Homicide Task Force identified and apprehended a 16-year-old male suspect at approximately 2:50 a.m. Tuesday.
The suspect, whose name has not been released due to his juvenile status, was taken into custody and transported to the Allen County Juvenile Center.
He is charged with:
- Felony Murder
- Robbery
Authorities have not yet disclosed further details regarding the circumstances of the shooting, including a possible motive or how the suspect and victim knew each other.
The FWPD Homicide Unit is actively investigating the case, and additional charges may be considered as more information emerges.
Officials urge anyone with relevant information to contact the Fort Wayne Police Department or submit anonymous tips through Crime Stoppers.
This is a developing story, and updates will be provided as new information becomes available.