The Peoria community is grieving following the tragic death of 20-year-old Lamelo Gilbert Elisha, who was fatally shot Sunday night, October 26, 2025. Family, friends, and neighbors are struggling to come to terms with the loss of a young life full of promise and potential.
According to the Peoria Police Department (PPD Incident #25-21201), officers were dispatched around 8:18 p.m. to the 3200 block of North Isabell after receiving reports of a shooting involving a man inside a vehicle. Upon arrival, authorities found Elisha suffering from multiple gunshot wounds. Emergency responders transported him to a local hospital, where he was later pronounced dead.
SUPPORT THE FAMILY - GOD BLESS YOU
Crime scene investigators quickly secured the area, collecting evidence and canvassing nearby homes while interviewing witnesses. Preliminary reports indicate that Elisha was shot while seated in a parked vehicle. Police have not yet released details about any suspects or a potential motive. The case is under investigation by the Peoria Police Department’s Criminal Investigations Division.
Peoria County Coroner Jamie Harwood confirmed Elisha’s identity and stated that an autopsy would be conducted to determine the precise cause and manner of death.
Peoria Police Chief Eric Echevarria addressed the incident, expressing sorrow over the community’s ongoing struggle with gun violence. “This is another tragic and senseless loss of life in our city,” he said. “Our hearts go out to the family and friends of Mr. Elisha. We will continue working tirelessly to bring justice to those responsible.”
Friends and family remember Lamelo, known affectionately as “Melo,” as a driven and compassionate young man. “He was just getting started in life,” a family friend said. “He had so much going for him — he was caring, hardworking, and full of dreams. It’s so unfair that he’s gone.”
Elisha’s death marks yet another reminder of the persistent toll of gun violence in Peoria this year. Community leaders, clergy, and anti-violence advocates have called for unity and decisive action to prevent further tragedies.
Residents have created a growing memorial along North Isabell, leaving candles, flowers, and handwritten notes to honor Lamelo’s memory. Friends and neighbors have gathered at the site to share stories, prayers, and moments of reflection for a young life cut tragically short.
Authorities are urging anyone with information about the shooting to come forward. Tips can be submitted anonymously to Peoria Police at (309) 673-4521 or Crime Stoppers at (309) 673-9000.