Individual arrested following gun discharge during online dispute, leading to mandatory lockdown in Joliet
In the heart of Joliet, Illinois, a 25-year-old local resident named Travoccia W. Dillard found himself in hot water on a recent afternoon.
The incident unfolded in the 900-block of Ann Street, where Joliet police responded to a report of someone shooting a gun in the air at approximately 1:30 p.m. Residents in the area received a reverse 911 call to shelter in place, and schools were asked to delay dismissal during the incident.
According to investigators, Dillard allegedly fired a shot into the air from his home. It is not clear if there was any property damage, but thankfully, no one was injured during the incident.
The ensuing investigation revealed that the dispute stemmed from a social media argument between Dillard and another Joliet resident. In an unusual turn of events, Dillard allegedly changed his clothes after firing the shot.
As the investigation progressed, Dillard was taken into custody and transported to the Joliet Police Department. However, the name of the police station where he was taken after his arrest is not publicly available.
Dillard has been charged with Reckless Discharge of a Firearm. Intriguingly, Dillard denied firing the gun, according to investigators.
Anyone with information or video of the incident is asked to call the Joliet Investigations Division. If you wish to remain anonymous, you can submit your tips via the link available at crimestoppersofwillcounty.org.
The scene was secured just before 3 p.m., and the shelter-in-place had been lifted by that time. As the investigation continues, the community can rest assured that the Joliet Police Department is committed to ensuring the safety and well-being of its residents.