Champaign leaders call on the community's help following a deadly shooting

CHAMPAIGN, Ill. (WAND) - After a weekend of violence claimed the lives of two 18-year-olds Champaign leaders are sounding the alarm.

On Sunday, just after midnight, Champaign Police responded to the 2000 block of Cynthia Drive for a report of a shooting. Police said four people were hit, including an 18-year-old man and an 18-year-old woman who died after being taken to the hospital.

Champaign Chief Timothy T. Tyler said people were gathered in the parking lot when someone opened fire.

"I saw two young community members dead on the operating table and they looked like my son and daughter. I tell you what, I'm not 100% today. I am hurting," said Chief Tyler.

Champaign Police said one of the victims, who was injured, was not a part of the party. They were inside an apartment when a stray bullet hit them.

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Members of the city's Gun Violence Reduction Blueprint Plan have rallied around the victims and their families. Members of different organizations throughout the city start working after they've received information about a shooting. Jeorge Elvir, Community Relations Manager for the City of Champaign's Equity and Engagement Department, said members of the blueprint plan canvass the neighborhoods and provide them with services.

They also work to bring in partners to provide services to those directly and indirectly impacted by gun violence.

Chief Tyler said the blueprint is working.

"It's the best plan ever. I've worked I don't how many communities, but this is the only community I've seen put their money where their mouth is."

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Champaign Police said it needs the public's help finding the person responsible for the deadly shooting. Police ask that anyone who has information to call 217-351-4545.