Lacy K. Williams William J. Rudy Shooting; Danville Police Investigate Apparent Murder-Suicide on Grace Street
Authorities in Vermilion County have identified the victims of a fatal shooting that took place on May 9 in Danville. The deceased have been named as 32-year-old Lacy K. Williams and 67-year-old William J. Rudy, both residents of Danville, according to the Vermilion County Coroner’s Office. Autopsies were conducted on May 11, but final results are still pending.
The Danville Police Department responded to reports of gunfire in the 200 block of Grace Street around 8 p.m. Upon arrival, officers found Williams in the front yard with multiple gunshot wounds. She was rushed to a local hospital but died shortly after. Police then secured the property and discovered Rudy deceased inside the home, the result of an apparent self-inflicted gunshot wound.
Witnesses at the scene reported seeing a man standing over Williams with a handgun before she collapsed. They said he then entered the residence and did not reappear. Police made attempts to contact anyone inside but received no response, prompting a tactical entry by the Emergency Response Unit. Rudy was found dead inside, with no additional victims or threats discovered.
Investigators believe the incident may have been a murder-suicide, although the exact motive and relationship between the two individuals remain under investigation. Authorities are reviewing forensic evidence, witness statements, and background information to establish a clear timeline and cause behind the tragic event.
Residents in the Grace Street neighborhood expressed sorrow and disbelief following the shooting. Some who knew the victims have shared memories and condolences online, while others have called for greater attention to domestic violence and mental health. Police have urged anyone with information about the incident to contact them at (217) 431-2250 or reach out anonymously to Vermilion County Crime Stoppers at (217) 446-TIPS.
Danville Police Chief Chris Yates offered condolences to the families and assured the public that the investigation is ongoing. He emphasized the importance of community involvement in helping law enforcement prevent similar tragedies in the future. As Danville mourns this painful loss, officials continue to encourage vigilance, compassion, and open dialogue about mental health and conflict resolution.
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