On March 14, 2026, at 10:40 p.m., officers responded to the 600 block of Wheeler Avenue for a report of a shooting.

Responding officers were advised that a
vehicle transporting a male gunshot victim had left the area and was located at Meadow Avenue and Thorne Street in Rockdale.

Upon arrival, officers located a 15-year-old male who had sustained a gunshot wound to the head. A Will County Sheriff’s deputy had been flagged down by the driver of the vehicle and was providing medical assistance.

The victim was transported to Saint Joseph Medical Center in critical condition in the deputy’s squad car, with a Rockdale police officer assisting. The victim pppwas later transferred to Lurie Children’s Hospital in Chicago for further treatment.

A 14-year-old male was battered during the same incident and was transported to Saint Joseph Medical Center by the Joliet Fire Department for further treatment.

A preliminary investigation determined that the shooting occurred at West Park. Officers and detectives canvassed the area for evidence and additional information, and an evidence technician processed the scene.

The motive for the shooting remains under investigation. Anyone with information is encouraged to contact the Joliet Police Department Investigation Division at (815) 724-3020.

Anonymous tips can be submitted to Will County Crime Stoppers at (800) 323-6734 or online at
https://crimestoppersofwillcounty.org.