Former Longtime Kankakee Superintendent Statement on New Year’s Day Mass Shooting (Kankakee IL) – January 1, 2025 – Last night, we saw yet another mass shooting here in our beloved Kankakee where a celebratory gathering turned deadly. As a longtime community leader, my heart breaks for these victims and their families – some of whom I know personally. My heart aches for the Kankakee community, at large, that is now forced to cope with another tragic loss at the dawn of this brand new year.
Kankakee has watched tragedy after tragedy of gun violence ravage our county, state and nation at an alarming rate. The fact that these horrific shootings continue to take place – here in Kankakee and nationwide – is unfathomable.
In November, the Violence Prevention Coordinating Council (VPCC) held a Reducing Mass-
Shootings Summit at Kankakee Community College to discuss the role the city, the community and its residents play when it comes to these tragedies. Unfortunately, on the first day of 2025, we have to step into and play those roles. We will pull together, support one another and do everything we can to prevent senseless acts of violence like the one we saw last night.
We are grateful for the actions of the first responders and Kankakee police who acted quickly. We are confident that our law enforcement officials (with the support of the community), will swiftly bring the perpetrators to justice. As a community leader, I will monitor this situation closely and be in close contact with local officials to assist with whatever resources needed.
To the loved ones of these victims, I am so sorry for your loss. I am here for you. You deserve better and we will work together to bring you better, do better and be better. A new Kankakee begins with me. That is my commitment to you.
Loving Kankakee,
Genevra
Dr. Genevra Walters
Former Longtime Kankakee Superintendent Statement on New Year’s Day Mass Shooting
