CAHOKIA HEIGHTS, Ill — The Major Case Squad of Greater St. Louis has identified the man who was shot and set on fire in Cahokia Heights, Illinois.
He was identified Tuesday as 21-year-old Miljavon Sawyer of Cahokia Heights.
The Major Case Squad said it was called in Thursday to help investigate the "horrific murder."
Lt. Bud Jeremias with the Major Case Squad said detectives are looking for whoever shot the man multiple times, set him on fire and left his body just off the 5800 block of Pocket Road in Cahokia Heights. They initially struggled to identify Sawyer because they said he didn’t have any identification on him.
As of last week, police weren't certain if Sawyer was killed in the same place where he was found.
Detectives were busy last week interviewing people, canvassing the area and searching for possible surveillance video of the crime.
“We are scouring every business in that general area,” Jeremias said.
The investigation is ongoing. Law enforcement is also asking the public (potential witnesses) to come forward.
“This violent crime needs to end. This young man was a family member to somebody and that family needs closure. No individual needs to go through what this gentleman went through, so we’re just asking the public to please help us,” Jeremias said.
The Cahokia Heights Police Department requested the Major Case Squad to assist with the investigation. Anyone with information should call MCS at 618-332-4260 or 618-332-4277. CrimeStoppers can also be contacted anonymously at 866-371-TIPS(8477).