The Peoria County Sheriff’s officer who was shot during a traffic stop Saturday has been identified as deputy Jack Evans.
Sheriff Chris Watkins said Evans, 24, joined the sheriff’s office in January 2023.
“Deputy Evans has served with professionalism, dedication and a strong commitment to public safety since the day he took his oath,” Watkins said in a statement, noting Evans has received numerous awards during his tenure.
Watkins said Evans suffered gunshot wounds to his torso and both legs. The sheriff said Evans remains under medical care and faces a long recovery, “but is in good spirits.
“We ask the community to keep Deputy Evans, his loved ones, and all first responders involved in their thoughts,” said Watkins.
Evans was conducting a traffic stop in the 1000 block of South Western Avenue shortly before 10 p.m. Saturday when he was shot and a passenger fled on foot.
Peoria Police said the suspect, Larry D. Bell, 51, was taken into custody after being located in an abandoned building about two hours after the shooting.
The Peoria County State’s Attorney’s Office has charged Bell with multiple felonies, including attempted first-degree murder, aggravated battery with a firearm, and unlawful possession of methamphetamine. A petition to detain Bell until his trial has been filed and is scheduled for a Wednesday hearing.
The investigation is ongoing. Anyone with additional information is asked to contact the Peoria Police Department at 1-309-673-4521.
