Further Details Released in Bolingbrook Shooting That Killed 17-Year-Old Daniel Starks on Tuesday
Bolingbrook, Illinois — A quiet Tuesday night in Bolingbrook was shattered by gunfire that claimed the life of a 17-year-old boy in what authorities are describing as a tragic and senseless act of violence.
Just before 11 p.m. on April 15, officers with the Bolingbrook Police Department responded to reports of a shooting in the 100 block of Grove Court. Upon arrival, they discovered the victim, later identified as Daniel Starks, suffering from multiple gunshot wounds. Despite immediate medical attention, Starks was pronounced dead at the scene.
Investigation and Arrest
In the aftermath of the shooting, the Bolingbrook Police Department launched an intensive investigation. Authorities identified Tylan J. Barnett, an 18-year-old resident of Bolingbrook, as the primary suspect. Barnett was taken into custody and charged with first-degree murder and tampering with physical evidence. According to the arrest affidavit, Barnett claimed that he had been contacted by his sister, who believed someone was attempting to break into her residence. Upon arriving at the scene, Barnett reported seeing two individuals outside and, believing they were the intruders, went outside with a firearm. He stated that he fired multiple shots at one of the individuals running from the apartment building. Barnett later admitted to discarding the firearm in a nearby brush line.
Barnett is currently being held at the Warren County Regional Jail with bond set at $600,000, which breaks down to $150,000 for each charge.
Community Reaction
The loss of Daniel Starks has deeply affected the Bolingbrook community. Friends, family, and neighbors have expressed their grief and disbelief over the incident. A vigil was held at the DuPage Township Center, where attendees lit candles and shared prayers in memory of Starks. One mourner, Tomika Reed, a family member of the victims, lamented, “Why did this happen? What kind of world are we in where it’s that kind of hate that you would hurt the children?”
Local leaders have called for increased efforts to address gun violence and promote community safety. “It’s not just Bolingbrook. It’s across the country. I’m sick of guns,” said Anthony Taylor, a local resident, during an interview following the vigil.
Ongoing Investigation
The Bolingbrook Police Department continues to investigate the circumstances surrounding the shooting. Authorities have urged anyone with additional information to come forward. “Our patrol officers and investigators are working diligently on all potential leads and evidence at this time,” stated a spokesperson for the department.
As the community mourns the loss of Daniel Starks, local officials are emphasizing the importance of unity and vigilance in preventing further acts of violence. “This is not something you’re accustomed to,” said Willie Pole, founder of the youth organization FOCUS, who lives down the street from the incident. “It’s very disturbing because Bolingbrook is a quiet place, a nice place to live, very diverse.”
The Bolingbrook Police Department continues to encourage residents to report any information that may assist in the investigation. Tips can be submitted anonymously via Crime Stoppers at 630-378-4772, online at bolingbrookcrimestoppers.org, or by using the mobile P3 Tips app. A cash reward may be issued if the information leads to an arrest.
As the investigation unfolds, the community remains hopeful that justice will be served and that such a tragedy will not be repeated.