Pour Bros. Craft Taproom manager shot in downtown Champaign dies

CHAMPAIGN, Ill. (WAND) — The manager of a Champaign bar who was shot outside the Pour Bros. Craft Taproom has died.

Brandon Hardway, 45, passed away at 1:02 a.m. today at Carle Foundation Hospital.

An autopsy is scheduled for Monday.

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Hardway was shot in the back outside Pour Bros. on Feb. 8.

Fidele G. Tshimanga, 24, was charged with one count of attempted murder in the first degree and one count of aggravated battery with a firearm. He faces 31 years to natural life in prison on the attempted murder charge, a Class X felony with a heightened penalty range.

Champaign County State's Attorney Julia Rietz confirmed that Tshimanga will be arraigned Tuesday on first degree murder charges.

In a Facebook post, his wife, Erin Hardway, said: "It is with immense, unspeakable sadness that I share this update with you. ... Brandon died peacefully overnight after life supporting equipment was removed.

"My world is shattered. I had 3 beautiful months as his wife, but I was supposed to have forever. I have been so incredibly lucky to love Brandon and be loved by him. Thank you to our family, friends, and community for all the support we have received through this horrible time. You all are truly appreciated."

Pour Bros., which closed for three days following the Feb. 8 shooting, will stay open Saturday "as that is what Brandon would want," a post on the bar's Facebook page said. "Please keep our staff in your hearts. We are all hurting so much and need you more than ever. Brandon will always be here with us in spirit."

As part of the investigation, Champaign Police are seeking witnesses and video footage than can help the investigation. Anyone who has additional information can call 217-351-4545. Arrangements can be made for information to be shared privately. Anyone wishing to remain anonymous may also submit tips to Crime Stoppers by phone at: 217-373-8477 (TIPS); online at 373tips.com; or the “P3 Tips” mobile app.

All individuals are presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.