PONTOON BEACH, Ill. — A 27-year-old man was hospitalized after he was shot multiple times early Wednesday morning, according to the Pontoon Beach Police Department.
Investigators claimed the man was a victim of a "harrowing home invasion" in a home on Kathy Drive.
“I can’t imagine sitting at home in my safe space and something like that occurring," neighbor Aurora Daniels said. "To hear something like that happened in Pontoon is kind of scary.”
Officers responded to the scene after receiving calls of a break-in and shooting at the residence.
“Whatever problems you have going on in your life it’s never solved by hurting somebody else," Daniels said.
Officers found the man when they arrived at the scene. The man was transported to a local hospital in critical condition.
"At this time, the suspects involved in the home invasion remain at large, and law enforcement is urging anyone with information to come forward and assist in apprehending those responsible," the department said in a press release.
Pontoon Beach Police Chief Chris Modrusic told 5 On Your Side that witnesses saw a dark colored car leaving the area shortly after the shooting.
Investigators are currently gathering surveillance video and checking license plate readers throughout the area in an attempt to locate the vehicle.
“We believe this was a targeted event," Police Chief Chris Modrusic. “We're canvasing the area. We're looking at surveillance videos. Anybody out there that may have something on video we're looking anywhere between 12:30 a.m. and 1:30 a.m. It might be something real simple. Call us even if you don't think it's something we'll investigate."
Anyone with information about the incident is asked to call the police department at (618) 931-5100.
Resources for crime victims:
If you have been a victim of a crime or know someone who has been, 5 On Your Side has compiled a list of resources.
The Crime Victim Center of St. Louis has multiple programs to support victims of crime. Crime Victim Center’s programs range from direct services to crime victims as well as “creating awareness and change within the systems they encounter.”
Life Outside of Violence "helps those harmed by stabbing, gunshot or assault receive the treatment, support and resources they need to find alternatives to end the cycle of violence."
The Urban League of Metropolitan St. Louis has the Neighborhood Healing Network, which serves people who have experienced crime, violence or been the victim of an incident that caused trauma.
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