ALTON, Ill. — A 13-year-old girl is in critical condition and her family is by her side as they pray for her survival, according to Alton Police Chief Jarrett Ford.
It happened at a home on the intersection of Highland Avenue and Silver Street.
5 On Your Side asked police if the girl was the intended target and if she was shot during a drive-by shooting, but police wouldn't confirm those details, citing the ongoing investigation.
Ford shared, "Detectives with the Alton Police Department’s Criminal Investigations Division have worked tirelessly since the shooting occurred. They continue to follow up on active leads. They will continue to relentlessly pursue justice for the victim and her family."
Ford said he spoke to Alton Mayor David Goins, Madison County’s State Attorney, Tom Haine, several area police chiefs and sheriffs, and community leaders, all of whom have pledged their full support and resources to seek justice for the victim and her family.
Organizations like YWCA Southwestern Illinois in Alton have multiple programs to empower kids.
Executive Director Dorothy Hummel told 5 On Your Side, "My heart breaks to have another young child in Alton become a victim of gun violence."
She referenced two shootings resulting in the death of two teens within the last year.
"It's an opportunity for us to pause... what can we all do to prevent this type of violence? In our small way, we are trying to move the needle in this community. The idea is for kids to value themselves that they are special and unique," Hummel said.
The organization even received an R3 grant from the state in 2022 to tackle this problem.
Taylor Jeans is the organization's program development specialist and has focused on the R3 grant.
Since then, they've researched community needs by conducting surveys, focus groups and forums. Their grant funding is geared to youth development and youth violence prevention programs.
"There is tremendous amount of hurt that I've heard from focus groups and forums and this only emphasizes the need for something like this," Jeans said.
Alton's mayor said they are committed to create change.
Just last year, Alton partnered with UNICEF to become a Child Friendly City. Goins said it's a comprehensive process involving government leaders, stakeholders, hospitals and organizations to improve youth violence.
"One thing that stuck out with me when talking to kids at the high school, one big thing was about curbing violence because we had the big school fight earlier this year," Goins explained. "The violence prevention is going to be a huge component in this initiative."
As an Alton native, Goins called his hometown a great city and wants to ensure safety as a priority.
"We have challenges like every city. We are striving and doing our best to make our residents and visitors feel safe when they come to Alton," Goins shared.
As far as the investigation in the teen's case, Ford said they appreciate those who have contacted them with information and urge residents to continue passing along any information.
"We will solve this case together for the innocent child who was senselessly shot," Ford added.
If you have any information about the shooting, call Alton Police Department at 618-463-3505 ext. 671.