Newly-elected St. Charles Mayor Lora Vitek issued the following statement this morning regarding the fatal shooting at Trilogy Lounge early Sunday morning:
I want to address the incident that happened this weekend. Like many who have reached out to me, I was shocked that something like this happened here in St. Charles. Let me be clear: we do not condone any acts of violence in our City.
I am grateful for the tireless efforts of the men and women in our police department. They have been working around the clock and succeeded in placing a suspect in custody and filing charges within 24 hours of the incident. Thank you Chief Keegan and the entire St. Charles Police Department. And thank you to all the first responders for their quick actions on the scene.
As Liquor Commissioner, I have enacted an emergency closing of the Trilogy establishment and suspended their liquor license, effective June 28, at 4 p.m. In addition, I have called for the owners of Trilogy Entertainment to appear before an emergency hearing of the Liquor Control Commission June 30, 2021, at 8 a.m. to determine if further actions are warranted.
Please know that the Trilogy applicants were vetted following the same established process we utilize for every liquor license applicant. We performed comprehensive background checks, met with both the owner and partner, and they stood before the Liquor Control Commission and the City Council. We also can say that there were no prior incidents that could have served as a warning to the events that eventually unfolded.
I know you feel anxious and frustrated. We all want answers and action. But please remember this is an ongoing criminal investigation by our police department and the other law enforcement agencies involved. There is a process to be followed to make sure those responsible are held accountable.
I ask you to remember that this was a tragedy. Innocent people were hurt and a life was lost.
We will continue to share information as the investigation unfolds.
