An Illinois man was charged last week in connection with a July shooting involving his ex-girlfriend, which authorities believe he carried out to send a message to his current girlfriend.
Jaquon L. Timothy, 23, faces charges of aggravated battery with a firearm, according to the Peoria County State’s Attorney, two months after the incident on July 19 in Peoria, Illinois.
Officers responding to reports of the shooting around 1:30 a.m. found the victim suffering from gunshot wounds to her feet, the state attorney’s office said.
Investigators learned from Timothy’s current girlfriend that he allegedly told her beforehand what he planned to do. Police say Timothy shot his ex-girlfriend “as a way to prove his love to his new girlfriend,” prosecutors added.
Timothy’s girlfriend also informed authorities that he allegedly admitted to carrying out the shooting afterward.
A search warrant executed on Timothy’s phone revealed a text message in which he reportedly “claimed ownership of the shooting,” according to the state’s attorney’s office.
The victim’s current condition has not been disclosed.
It is unclear whether Timothy has entered a plea or retained legal representation.
The investigation remains ongoing, and anyone with information is urged to contact the Peoria Police Department at 309-673-4521.
