Crime
Illinois State Police release new details in Rock Island officer-involved shooting that killed 21-year-old Jakarta Jackson
ROCK ISLAND, Ill. — The Illinois State Police have released additional information regarding the fatal shooting of 21-year-old Jakarta Jackson by a Rock Island police officer. The incident, which occurred on Monday, January 6, remains under investigation.
According to the Illinois State Police media release, the situation began at approximately 3:20 p.m. when a Rock Island police officer attempted multiple times to stop a vehicle driven by Jackson, who had an active arrest warrant.
Jackson eventually stopped the vehicle but fled on foot. During the pursuit, he circled back to his car and attempted to flee again.
The officer opened the driver’s door in an effort to arrest Jackson but was reportedly dragged by the moving vehicle.
In response, the officer discharged their firearm, striking Jackson. Emergency medical services were called immediately.
Sources told us that Jackson was shot by Officer Brett Taylor.
Jackson was transported to a local hospital, where he succumbed to his injuries. The officer involved also sustained injuries and was treated at a hospital.
The officer has been placed on administrative leave, a standard procedure in such cases. Their identity has not yet been released.
The Rock Island County Integrity Task Force (RICITF) is leading the investigation, which includes reviewing footage from in-car and body-worn cameras.
In a statement, the Illinois State Police emphasized the importance of a thorough investigation, noting that premature release of video or other evidence without authorization from the Rock Island County State’s Attorney’s Office could compromise the case.
Upon conclusion of the investigation, the findings will be turned over to the State’s Attorney’s Office for review and a final determination.
Rock Island County Coroner Brian Gustafson stated that a preliminary autopsy revealed Jackson died from multiple gunshot wounds.
Friends and family of Jakarta Jackson gathered on Monday at the Rock Island County Justice Center and the Rock Island Police Department to protest and demand answers regarding the incident.
Leading the protest was Jackson’s niece, Shayia Jackson, who called for accountability and transparency.
In an earlier statement, Rock Island Police Chief Tim McCloud confirmed he had “immediately” requested the Rock Island County Integrity Task Force to investigate the use of deadly force, underscoring the department’s commitment to an independent and impartial review of the incident.
Authorities are encouraging anyone with information about the incident to contact the Rock Island County Integrity Task Force at 309-752-4915, extension 4935.
The investigation remains active, and further updates will be provided as they become available.
Memphis, Tenn. — A night of socializing turned violent late Saturday when a shooting at a popular restaurant in Parkway Village left one person dead and seven others injured, authorities confirm.
The incident occurred at approximately 11:30 p.m. near the intersection of Perkins Road and Cottonwood Road, adjacent to a Sonic Drive-In, outside a local restaurant known as the Mexican Spot.
According to preliminary reports, a group of Hispanic friends had been gathering at the establishment, drinking and socializing, when an argument escalated into gunfire both inside and outside the venue.
Witnesses, including a security guard at the scene, reported that multiple victims suffered various gunshot wounds:
- One individual was shot in the neck.
- Another victim sustained gunshot wounds to the face and chest.
- A third was struck in the ribs.
- A bystander, who was not involved in the altercation, was shot in the leg.
Emergency medical services responded quickly, transporting several victims to nearby hospitals.
One victim was pronounced dead at the scene.
The conditions of the surviving victims have not been fully disclosed, but several are reported to be in critical condition.
The Memphis Police Department is actively investigating the shooting.
No information on potential suspects has been released at this time, and investigators are working to determine whether additional individuals were involved.
Authorities have urged anyone with information about the incident to come forward and assist with the investigation.
This is a developing story.
Updates will be provided as more details become available.