MT. VERNON, IL — Mt. Vernon Police continue to investigate a deadly weekend shooting in the 600 block of South 15th Street.

At 12:50 Sunday morning, police along with Mt. Vernon Fire and other emergency responders went to the scene where multiple reports of gunfire were reported. They found several people suffering from gunshot wounds. They were taken to local hospital by ambulance or private means. Two people were confirmed dead. Five more victims received treatment for gunshot-related injuries.

Mt. Vernon Mayor John Lewis released a statement saying this kind of violence will not be tolerated in the community and the city will not tolerate this kind of activity.

State Senator Terri Bryant also released a statement thanking the police department and other emergency responders who acted swiftly and professionally in this difficult situation. Bryant says she will remain in close contact with local officials as the investigation moves forward.

Anyone with information regarding the shooting or if you have video showing what happened, contact Mt. Vernon Police at 618-242-2131.

The victims who were killed in the July 27th, 2025, shooting are identified as Zomarrius Williams, 20-year-old male from Mt. Vernon, IL and Demonta Woodward, 26-year-old male from Mounds, IL.

Jerria J. Smith, 22-year-old female from Mt. Vernon, IL has been arrested and charged with Reckless Discharge of a Firearm and Obstruction of Justice.

We are still in the early stages of this investigation and will continue to develop leads and evidence. More arrest and charges are anticipated as the investigation continues into this senseless gun violence that has tragically caused loss of life and injuries to others.

Anyone who has not spoken with or shared information with investigators, are encouraged to contact the Mt. Vernon Police Department at 618-242-2132 or Crime Stoppers at 618-242-8477 (TIPS).

Anyone who has video can send it at https://mtvernonpdil.evidence.com/axon/community-request/public/15th-and-lamar-shooting