No motive in shooting death of 38-year-old Alorton father. Family wants justice.
A 38-year-old man was shot and later died in the 800 block of South 15th Street in East St. Louis Friday night.
East St. Louis Police Sgt. Cantrell Patterson said the Hardy Burns, of Alorton, was found laying on the ground when police arrived shortly after receiving the call at 10:47 p.m.
Multiple bullets were fired at the victim, Patterson said.
St. Clair County coroner Calvin Dye Sr., identified Burns Sunday.
“He was pronounced at the scene at 11:50 p.m.,” Dye said.
Police found multiple shell casings at the scene. There hasn’t been an arrest and there is no known motive, Patterson said.
“Illinois State Police have taken the lead in this investigation,” he said. “We have no suspects at this time. The investigation is ongoing. We encourage the public to call us with any information they may have.
“If you saw something, please say something. Help us to catch these guys who are shooting these guns.”
LaKisha Newbern, Burn’s cousin said his untimely death has been hard on the family.
“On behalf of our family, we would like the public to know Hardy Burns was a son, a father, a brother, a beloved family member and was loved by so many close friends,” LaKisha Newbern-Lloyd said.
“Hardy was very big on respect. He was born and raised in East St. Louis in the south end area. He was raised to respect himself and others.
“We will never understand the timing nor the way he was taken away from us. Hardy saw the potential in everyone, even when it was hard to see it in himself. He leaves behind two sisters who are very hurt to lose their only brother, the protector of our family.”
Burns shooting death is the 16th in East St. Louis this year.
Newbern-Floyd is calling on law enforcement to give her family justice for her cousin’s death.
“No one deserves to be taken away from their children, family and friends,” Newbern said.
The family is grateful to all of the individuals who have contacted them and offered condolences, prayers and support.
“We would like to thank everyone for the outpouring of love, prayers, and sympathy. Continue to pray for us. We very much appreciate it,” Newbern said.
This story was originally published July 12, 2020 at 4:57 PM.
