Glenwood, IL – A 31-year-old man was shot and killed early Sunday morning following a confrontation outside a bar in south suburban Glenwood, according to police.

The incident occurred at approximately 1:30 a.m. in the parking lot of the Chug-A-Lug Pub & Grill, located in the 18000 block of South Halsted Street.

Glenwood police responded to reports of shots fired and discovered the victim, later identified as James Honey Jr., also known as “Liddle Balling,” suffering from a gunshot wound.

Officers immediately attempted to render aid, but he succumbed to his injuries at the scene.

A preliminary investigation revealed that the victim and his companions were attempting to leave the bar when they became involved in a confrontation with another group outside.

The dispute escalated, leading to the fatal shooting.

The suspect fled the scene in a vehicle, and authorities are actively working to identify and apprehend those involved.

The Glenwood Police Department and the South Suburban Major Crimes Task Force are leading the ongoing investigation.

Glenwood Mayor Ron Gardiner addressed the incident on Sunday, calling the shooting “unacceptable” and emphasizing the need for greater efforts to prevent gun violence in the community.

“This tragedy is unacceptable and has no place in our community or any other. One person’s senseless decision has left the victim’s family and friends devastated, and we are keeping them in our thoughts during this incredibly difficult time.”

Mayor Gardiner also stated that he has spoken with the owners of Chug-A-Lug and confirmed that the incident occurred outside the establishment and was not a reflection of the environment inside.

He noted that the business is committed to enhancing security measures to ensure patron safety.

Additionally, Gardiner, who serves as president of the South Suburban Mayors and Managers Association, announced plans to organize a summit on gun violence aimed at fostering collaboration among local leaders to prevent similar tragedies.

“It is my hope that those involved in this incident will come forward and accept responsibility for their actions, and that those with any information will contact the Glenwood Police Department,” he added.

The Chug-A-Lug Pub & Grill released an official statement acknowledging the broader concerns about violence in the Southland region while emphasizing that the incident took place outside in the parking lot as patrons were leaving.

“We acknowledge the unfortunate reality that violence is an issue affecting parts of the Southland region. While this incident occurred in our parking lot and was not a reflection of the atmosphere inside Chug-A-Lug, we understand the broader context.”

The business stated that it has security personnel and strategic closing procedures in place to ensure customer safety and emphasized that this was the first incident of this nature at their establishment.

“We understand that this incident has caused concern within our community, and we want to reassure everyone that we are taking all necessary steps to further enhance our security measures. Beyond our immediate security, Chug-A-Lug is committed to remaining a part of the conversation and contributing to efforts aimed at addressing and helping to stop violence in our community. We are a family-friendly establishment, and the safety of our guests and the well-being of our community remains our utmost priority.”

At this time, police have not determined what initially sparked the confrontation leading to the fatal shooting.

Authorities are urging anyone with information to contact the Glenwood Police Department as the investigation remains ongoing.