CHAMPAIGN, Ill. — 16-Year-Old Jeremiah Carter Killed, Another Teen Critically Injured in Holly Hill Drive Shooting

CHAMPAIGN, Ill. — 16-Year-Old Jeremiah Carter Killed, Another Teen Critically Injured in Holly Hill Drive Shooting

CHAMPAIGN, Ill. — A tragic act of violence unfolded just after midnight on Sunday in Champaign, leaving 16-year-old Jeremiah Carter dead and another teenage boy critically injured in a shooting on Holly Hill Drive. The incident has shocked the community and prompted an urgent investigation by the Champaign Police Department.

Shooting Reported at 12:01 A.M.

At 12:01 a.m. on Sunday, June 29, 2025, officers with the Champaign Police responded to reports of gunfire and injured individuals near the intersection of Holly Hill Drive and Garden Hills Drive. When officers arrived, they discovered Jeremiah Carter and another 16-year-old boy, both unconscious and suffering from life-threatening gunshot wounds, lying in a front yard.

The two teens, both residents of Champaign, were found near the track across from Pine Lane.

Emergency Response and Tragic Outcome

Police officers and firefighters on the scene administered immediate medical aid before both teens were rushed to a nearby hospital. Despite lifesaving efforts, Jeremiah Carter was pronounced dead shortly after arrival. The second teen remains in critical condition as of Sunday morning.

Authorities have not released the identity of the surviving teen, who is still fighting for his life.

Investigation in Progress — Police Seek Public Help

The Champaign Police Department is actively investigating the incident and is asking for the public’s assistance. As of Sunday morning, no arrests have been made, and the motive behind the shooting remains unclear.

Investigators are continuing to interview potential witnesses and are canvassing the area for home or business surveillance footage that might provide crucial evidence. Police are especially interested in video captured around Holly Hill Drive, Garden Hills Drive, and Pine Lane between midnight and 12:15 a.m.

“The loss of Jeremiah Carter is a heartbreaking blow to his family, his peers, and the entire community,” a police spokesperson stated. “We are committed to finding those responsible and holding them accountable. We’re asking anyone with information to come forward.”

How to Submit a Tip

Anyone with information related to the shooting of Jeremiah Carter and the critically injured teen is encouraged to contact the Champaign Police Department at 217-351-4545. Anonymous tips can be submitted through Champaign County Crime Stoppers by:

• Calling 217-373-8477 (TIPS)
• Submitting online at www.373tips.com
• Using the “P3 Tips” mobile app

Tipsters remain anonymous and may be eligible for a cash reward if the information leads to an arrest.

Community Reaction

Sunday’s shooting marks another devastating incident in a year already marred by youth violence in Champaign. The community of Garden Hills, already weary from previous tragedies, is once again mourning the loss of a young life.

Local leaders and neighbors described Jeremiah Carter as a kind and vibrant young man with his whole future ahead of him. Vigils and calls for peace are already being planned in his memory.

As the investigation continues, the community waits for answers — and justice — in the wake of another senseless act of gun violence that has forever altered the lives of two families.