CHAMPAIGN, Ill. (WAND) - Pour Bros. Craft Taproom has released a statement after a shooting that left one of their staff members fighting for their life.
Champaign Police were dispatched to the 100 block of N. Market Street for a report of a shooting with injuries, Thursday afternoon.
According to police, officers arrived on scene around 3:19 p.m. and located a 45-year-old Broadlands man with a potentially life-threatening gunshot wound to the torso.
Officers, along with the help of firefighters from the Champaign Fire Department rendered medical aid until the man could be transported to an area hospital.
Police say the victim remains in critical condition.
In a statement, Pour Bros. said:
"Pour Bros. Champaign will be closed today, Friday, 2/10. As many of you may know, an unspeakable tragedy took place just outside our doors on Market St. yesterday afternoon. This involved a beloved member of our staff who is now in a fight for his life. We truly appreciate all the positive thoughts, prayers, and good vibes sent our way as the Pour Bros. family continues to stay focused on the healing of those impacted.
"To be blunt, the Pour Bros. Family is not ok. We are all hurting immensely and will be taking the necessary time to support everyone impacted by this situation.
"We will update you all as much as possible. Please keep all the positive energy coming. The entire Pour Bros. family really appreciates all of you."
The initial investigation indicates that the victim was approached by Fidele Tshimanga, 24, of Urbana, who produced a firearm and opened fire before fleeing the scene.
Additional officers arriving in the area quickly apprehended Tshimanga and transported him to the Champaign County Correctional Facility, where he is being held on initial charges, including Aggravated Battery with a Firearm.
A firearm was recovered during this investigation.
Even though an arrest has been made, the investigation remains ongoing.
Officers continue to canvass the surrounding area for witnesses and video footage that may be of investigative assistance.
Any resident or business in the nearby area with exterior surveillance camera systems is encouraged to notify the police department.
Champaign Police ask that anyone who has additional information please 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.
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