Authorities have identified the man found dead late Tuesday night in Rock Falls, igniting an ongoing investigation into what is now being treated as a homicide.
Jasen M. Bell, 42, was discovered lying on the ground along West 17th Street, between 13th and 14th Avenues, following a report of gunfire in the area.
The Rock Falls Police Department was called to the scene at 10:24 p.m., responding to the gunfire report, according to a press release issued by Police Chief David Pilgrim.
Bell’s body was found upon arrival, and an autopsy confirmed his identity. The nature of his death has prompted local authorities to launch a homicide investigation, though as of Wednesday afternoon, no arrests had been made and no suspects had been publicly identified.
Whiteside County Sheriff John Booker confirmed that no one was currently being held in the county jail in connection to the fatal shooting. Sheriff Booker also indicated that his office was working in conjunction with the Rock Falls Police Department and other agencies to investigate the circumstances surrounding Bell’s death.
The absence of a named suspect and the ongoing nature of the investigation have left residents concerned. The gunfire that led to the discovery of Bell’s body has prompted questions about community safety.
Local police have refrained from commenting further on potential motives or suspects, urging the public to come forward with any information that might assist the investigation. Chief Pilgrim and Sheriff Booker emphasized the importance of community cooperation in solving the case.
The authorities involved in the investigation include the Sterling Police Department, Whiteside County Sheriff’s Office, Illinois State Police, ISP Crime Scene Services, and the Whiteside County Coroner. This collaboration among multiple law enforcement bodies reflects the seriousness of the case, which has left the typically quiet streets of Rock Falls shaken.
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