South Holland, IL – Three suspects have been charged in the shooting death of 16-year-old Davell Holden. He was waiting for a DoorDash order outside his girlfriend’s home when the incident occurred.
Cook County prosecutors stated that Javan Moore, 21, and Demon Smith, 20, were involved in the incident alongside a 16-year-old male, whose identity is withheld.
The suspects reportedly pulled up in a stolen vehicle and opened fire, intending to kill an individual who previously lived on the same street as Holden.
Moore allegedly exited the vehicle to shoot Holden, while Smith and the minor are charged with felony murder. Evidence gathered from the minor’s phone suggests he attempted to sell the weapon used in the shooting. The gun was later recovered during a search of his residence.
Local officials described the event as a “case of mistaken identity.” Davell Holden was visiting his girlfriend when he was fatally shot by individuals who believed he resembled their intended target.
At a press conference announcing the arrests, South Holland’s Mayor Don De Graff and Police Chief Shawn Staples expressed their sorrow over Holden’s death.
De Graff noted Holden’s positive reputation as an honor student and basketball player while Staples reflected on the impact this crime had on the community and police department.
Prosecutors indicated that all suspects are affiliated with a gang named 9 Block. Their planned attack was allegedly directed at a rival gang member.
Village Administrator J. Wynsma made clear that such violence is not tolerated in South Holland.
Holden’s mother, Angela Birts, shared her grief, stating that her son did not deserve to die in this manner and recalled the panic she felt driving to the scene.
The suspects, held without bond, are expected to appear in court on Tuesday.