Robert McKinney Jr Obituary and Death28, Tragically Killed by Father, Robert McKinney Sr., 51, in Rantoul Shooting, Leaving Community in Shock
Robert McKinney Jr., a 28-year-old man from Rantoul, lost his life in a tragic shooting incident on Sunday morning, allegedly at the hands of his father, Robert McKinney Sr., 51. The devastating event has left the community in shock and grief.
According to Assistant State’s Attorney En-Chi Lin, Rantoul police responded to a call in the 700 block of East Sangamon Avenue, where they found McKinney Jr. suffering from a gunshot wound. He was rushed to Carle Foundation Hospital in Urbana, where he was pronounced dead at 7:51 a.m. An autopsy was scheduled for Tuesday.
McKinney Sr. has been charged with first-degree murder, possession of a handgun by a felon, and aggravated battery with a firearm. He admitted to detectives that he had a fight with his son, felt threatened when the younger McKinney started throwing objects at him, and retrieved a revolver from the home safe to protect himself. A struggle ensued, and one shot was fired, striking McKinney Jr. in the head.
McKinney Sr. claimed that his son had mental health issues and informed police that he had shot him. A search warrant was executed at McKinney Sr.’s home around 6 a.m., and he was taken into custody at 12:55 p.m. at the Champaign County Jail.
If convicted of first-degree murder, McKinney Sr. faces 45 years to life in prison. The community is still reeling from the news of this tragic incident, and the investigation is ongoing.
The loss of Robert McKinney Jr. has left a void in the lives of those who knew him, and his family and friends are struggling to come to terms with this senseless act of violence. As the community mourns his passing, they also demand justice for the victim and his loved ones.
The incident serves as a stark reminder of the devastating consequences of gun violence and the need for greater awareness and support for mental health issues. As the investigation continues, the community hopes for a thorough and swift resolution to this tragic case.
Robert McKinney Jr.’s memory will live on in the hearts of those who knew him, and his legacy will be a reminder of the importance of compassion, understanding, and non-violent conflict resolution.
The community is coming together to support the family and friends of the victim, offering a shoulder to cry on and a helping hand in this difficult time. The outpouring of love and support is a testament to the impact Robert McKinney Jr. had on those around him.
As the legal proceedings unfold, the community will continue to demand justice for Robert McKinney Jr. and work towards creating a safer, more compassionate world for all.
In the face of this unimaginable tragedy, the community finds solace in the memories they shared with Robert McKinney Jr. and the knowledge that his legacy will live on through the countless lives he touched. Rest in peace, Robert McKinney Jr. Your memory will never be forgotten.
