JEFFERSON COUNTY, Ill. — A frightening incident unfolded on Interstate 57 Friday morning when shots were fired at a vehicle traveling northbound, prompting a swift response from multiple law enforcement agencies. Authorities have confirmed that one person is now in custody in connection with the shooting.
According to the Illinois State Police (ISP), troopers and deputies from the Jefferson County Sheriff’s Office responded to the area of I-57 northbound near mile marker 93, just south of Mount Vernon, after reports of gunfire. The call came in at 8:39 a.m.
Investigators say an individual inside one vehicle fired shots at another vehicle while traveling along the interstate. Fortunately, no one inside the targeted vehicle was injured, and no other motorists were struck by gunfire. Authorities have not disclosed how many rounds were fired, but confirmed the incident created a highly dangerous situation for drivers along the busy highway.
Shortly after the shooting, law enforcement tracked the suspect vehicle eastward and executed a felony traffic stop off Interstate 64 near the Jefferson/Hamilton County line. The suspect was taken into custody without incident.
The individual’s identity has not yet been released, as investigators continue to process evidence and conduct interviews. Charges are pending, and police say additional details will be shared once the case is further along.
The Illinois State Police Division of Criminal Investigation, along with Jefferson County detectives, is leading the investigation. Authorities are working to determine a motive and whether the suspect and victim knew each other or if the shooting was a case of random road rage.
Meanwhile, police have stepped up patrols along I-57 and I-64 as a precaution, reassuring drivers that public safety remains a top priority.
Local officials have praised the rapid coordination between agencies. “This could have ended much worse,” said one Jefferson County official. “We are grateful no one was hurt and that the suspect was quickly apprehended.”
The incident has left drivers shaken, with several witnesses describing the fear of seeing gunfire on a major interstate during the morning commute. ISP has urged anyone with additional information, dashcam footage, or eyewitness accounts to come forward and assist investigators.
As the case moves forward, authorities are reminding the public to remain vigilant on the roads and to immediately report any suspicious or reckless behavior to law enforcement.
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