Two Men Killed in Early Morning Shooting Near Pekin Airport; Suspect in Custody
SOUTH PEKIN, Ill. — A tragic act of violence unfolded early Thursday morning near the Pekin Municipal Airport, leaving two young men dead and a community grappling with shock and sorrow. According to the Tazewell County Sheriff’s Office, deputies were dispatched to the scene shortly after 4:30 a.m. following reports of gunfire in a residential area off South Illinois Route 29 in South Pekin.
Upon arrival around 6 a.m., authorities discovered two male victims who had sustained fatal gunshot wounds. They were pronounced dead at the scene.
The victims have been identified by the Tazewell County Coroner’s Office as Chase Rhodes, of Pekin, and Dawson Reese, of rural Pekin. Both were just 21 years old.
Suspect Identified and Arrested
Sheriff Jeffrey Lower confirmed that Memphis Rue, also believed to be a resident of the area, was taken into custody at the scene. Details surrounding Rue’s connection to the victims or the motive behind the shooting have not yet been disclosed, but authorities have stated that there is no ongoing threat to the public.
The suspect was reportedly cooperative during the arrest and was transported to the Tazewell County Jail, where he remains pending formal charges. The investigation is active and ongoing, with detectives working to piece together the events that led to the deadly encounter.
A Community in Mourning
The deaths of Chase Rhodes and Dawson Reese have sent waves of grief throughout the Pekin community. Both young men were described by those who knew them as friendly, hardworking, and full of promise.
“Chase had a heart of gold,” one family friend shared. “He was the kind of person who could make you laugh no matter what kind of day you were having.”
Dawson, remembered for his adventurous spirit and loyalty to his friends, was known among peers as someone who never hesitated to lend a hand. “He loved the outdoors and had big dreams for the future,” said a former classmate.
Social media has since been flooded with heartfelt tributes, photos, and memories, as friends and family struggle to process the loss.
Investigation Underway
Law enforcement has been tight-lipped about further details, citing the sensitive nature of the investigation. Detectives with the Tazewell County Sheriff’s Office are actively collecting evidence from the scene, including witness statements and forensic materials, in hopes of clarifying the circumstances that led to the fatal shooting.
The home where the shooting took place remains cordoned off with crime scene tape as investigators continue their work.
Authorities have urged anyone with information related to the incident to come forward. Tips can be provided anonymously through local crime reporting channels.
Looking Ahead
The Tazewell County State’s Attorney’s Office is expected to announce charges against Memphis Rue in the coming days. Meanwhile, both victims’ families are preparing for funeral arrangements and have asked for privacy during this profoundly difficult time.
Counseling and support services are being made available at local schools and community centers for those impacted by the tragedy.
Final Thoughts
As Pekin mourns the loss of two of its young men, there is a deep sense of heartbreak—but also unity. Candlelight vigils and memorials are being organized in the coming days to honor Chase Rhodes and Dawson Reese, whose lives were cut far too short.
This devastating event is a painful reminder of the fragility of life and the need for community support in times of grief. The investigation continues, but the priority now is to care for those left behind and remember the lives lost.
May Chase and Dawson rest in peace.