A Carbondale man is charged with killing Keeshanna Jackson, the 18-year-old SIU-Carbondale freshman gunned down outside a house party on West Cherry Street in August 2021.
During a news conference at the Carbondale Police Department Wednesday, Jackson County State's Attorney Joe Cervantez said 22-year-old Keavonte Nesby is accused of firing the shot that killed Jackson.
"Count 1 is First Degree Murder; Count 2, First Degree Murder; Count 3, Aggravated Discharge of a Firearm; Count 4 Aggravated Discharge of a Firearm and Count 5 is Aggravated Unlawful Use of a Weapon."
Cervantez said Nesby is a Carbondale native who did not have any association with the University. He said the shooting occurred between two rival groups that were feuding at the time of the incident.
"The story is senseless and tragic. But, the lesson is fairly simple. Don't shoot in Jackson County, because when you do, you're going to be held accountable."
He said it took over 100 interviews with people believed to be at the party to identify Nesby as the suspect. Multiple arrests have already been made of those believed to be involved in the incident.
Carbondale Chief of Police and interim City Manager Stan Reno said the three other people injured in the shooting are still grappling with the trauma of that night in 2021. He said there is still a lot of work to do on this case and he asked the public for help.
"To help the Carbondale community and beyond, we still need your help. If you have any information about this crime, no matter how small it may seem, please come forward. Your assistance is crucial in helping us to continue to bring justice to Keeshanna's family and your assistance is crucial in preventing further violence in our community."
Reno said the F-B-I is offering a $10,000 reward and the City of Carbondale $5,000 for information leading to arrests and convictions for those involved in Jackson's murder.
Jackson's aunt, Keschell White, said the family is pleased to have an arrest in this case.
Jackson's mother, Arielle White, said her message to those involved in this shooting and others is to put the guns down.
"You're breaking a lot of people's hearts. There are a lot of moms who have lost their kids to gun violence and they're suffering...heartbroken. It's hurtful. It's very hurtful."
Keavonte Nesby will appear in Jackson County Court for the first time on September 4.
