1 person shot at Decatur community center

DECATUR, Ill. (WAND) - One person was shot at the Old King's Orchard Community Center in Decatur Thursday morning, according to the non-profit's executive director.

Devon Joyner told WAND News several kids were working at the building in a youth work program when they noticed someone circling the property. That's when a person started shooting at the group at OKO.

"One individual was hit with a non-life threatening wound," according to Joyner. He said they were "doing okay."

It's not clear how old the children were at the facility. Decatur police said the victim was 21 and was treated at the hospital.

Joyner said the victim has been with OKO for several years.

"We helped him graduate from high school and he was in the process of getting his driver's license this week," Joyner said.

Decatur police and other first responders were called to the building on North Church Street near West Green Street around 11 a.m. Thursday.

The building was surrounded by crime scene tape and several officers could be seen going in and out of the building.

Decatur police said Thursday afternoon they have not made an arrest but believe the victim was targeted. Police said the suspect ran west after the shooting.

Old King's Orchard Community Center, or OKO, is a non-profit that provides a safe environment for children and seniors in the Old King's Orchard neighborhood of Decatur, according to the group's website.

"I'm not going to give up on my community," Devon told WAND News when asked about the violence. "I'm not going to give up on my kids. We have to understand this is something we have to address as a whole but we're not going to let this stop of us from our fight to move in the right direction."

A neighbor told WAND News they heard several pops and then saw someone running from the building.

Joyner said he's already considering security changes at the building.

OKO Board Chair Chris Ellis said in a statement following the shooting, that they are thankful the injuries are not life-threatening; however, the emotional toll is being felt throughout the staff, youth, and community.

"It is precisely because of violence like this that OKO’s mission is so urgent. Our programs, from job readiness and mentorship to education and life skills, exist to offer a different path. A better path. A future where our youth feel safe, supported, and seen," said Ellis.

Decatur police said anyone with information can call them at 217-424-2711, text DPD33 to 274637, or make an anonymous tip through Crime Stoppers at 217-423-8477.