ILLINOIS STATE POLICE INVESTIGATING OFFICER-INVOLVED SHOOTING
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
January 5, 2026
January 5, 2026
EAST ST. LOUIS – The Illinois State Police (ISP) is investigating an officer-involved shooting that occurred on January 4, 2026, at approximately 10:08 p.m., near a convenience store in the 4500 block of South State Street in East St. Louis, IL.
Preliminary information indicates Troopers were investigating a reported stolen vehicle. As Troopers attempted to stop the vehicle, the driver put the vehicle in reverse, striking an ISP squad car, and then drove in the direction of a Trooper, who then discharged his firearm, striking the driver, 40-year-old Rachel E. Tarrence of Maryville, IL. Troopers immediately called for EMS and began rendering medical aid. Tarrence was transported to an area hospital where she was pronounced deceased. No Troopers were injured.
Per standard protocol, the involved Trooper has been placed on administrative status pending the outcome of the investigation. In accordance with the Police and Community Relations Improvement Act (50 ILCS 727) and the Illinois State Police Law (20 ILCS 2605), ISP Division of Internal Investigation Special Agents are investigating this incident.
This investigation is open and ongoing. ISP is currently processing evidence and conducting interviews. Upon completion of the investigation, all evidence and facts will be submitted for review to the St. Clair County State’s Attorney's Office. No additional information is available at this time.
All suspects are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
###