BELLEVILLE, IL — An incident which began with a shooting in Belleville, Illinois came to an end early Sunday morning in Perry County, Mo. with the suspect reportedly killing himself with a self-inflicted gunshot.
The Bellville Police Department released this statement of the incident:
“On Saturday, January 17, 2026, around 2319 hours, Belleville and Swansea Police Departments responded to the 1700 block of Jamestown Road Belleville, Illinois in reference to multiple shots fired.
“Upon law enforcement arrival, three victims were identified. One female victim was deceased in the roadway, and two other female victims were occupying a vehicle in an adjacent parking lot. One victim occupying the vehicle was injured from gun fire.
“Due to criminal offenses occurring in both law enforcement jurisdictions and the homicide scene was in the middle of the roadway, Belleville Police Department took lead of the investigation.
“A known acquaintance of the victims was identified as the suspect to include a suspect vehicle. A regional law enforcement BOLO (be on the lookout) was broadcast for the suspect and vehicle.
“On Sunday, January 18, around 0230 hours, Perry County Sheriff’s Department, Missouri located the suspect vehicle traveling southbound on Interstate 55. Law enforcement attempted to conduct a traffic stop on the suspect vehicle.
“Prior to law enforcement having contact with the suspect, he took his own life from what is believed to be self-inflicted gunshot wound.
“Currently Belleville Police Department is not seeking any other suspects.
“Belleville Police Department would like to thank Swansea Police Department, Illinois State Police Crime Scene Services, Perry County (Mo.) Sheriff’s Department, Perry County (Mo.) Coroner’s Office, and the witnesses on scene.
“Our thoughts and prayers go out to the families and friends of all who were affected by this tragic chain of events.
“This is still an active investigation. If you have any information relevant to the investigation, please contact Belleville Police Department Investigations Division at 618-234-1212.”
Perry County, Mo. Sheriff Jason Klaus said his deputies spotted the vehicle on I-55 and it appeared to be begin to pull over. It was at this time they observed what appeared to be gunshot inside the vehicle. They waited a suitable amount of time before approaching the vehicle and when they did, they found the suspect had shot himself.