Illinois college cheerleader, 19, was riddled with bullets in Halloween mass shooting near campus
An Illinois college cheerleader, 19, was killed in a mass shooting at an off-campus Halloween party over the weekend that also left eight people wounded, according to police and friends.
Giana Dettloff died at the scene of the shooting near Illinois Wesleyan University in Bloomington, Illinois, at about 1:30 a.m. on Sunday.
Dettloff, an only child, was riddled with bullets, having been shot multiple times in the chest and pelvis, according to a preliminary autopsy report.
No suspects have been arrested in the shooting so far.
She was a freshman cheerleader from tiny North Central College outside Chicago, and was visiting a friend about two hours away in Bloomington.
“For a parent, sending a child off to college is filled with pride, hope, and excitement for the journey ahead. To have that journey cut short in such a tragic way is a parent’s worst nightmare. Our hearts are with Giana’s family, friends, and everyone impacted by this tragedy,” police chief Jamal Simington said in a statement on Facebook.
“We also ask our community to keep Giana’s loved ones in their thoughts and respect their privacy as they navigate this unimaginable loss.”
Dettloff has been described by her family as “full of life, a sweet girl with a very bright future.”
The police chief said officials “will identify the person or persons responsible for this tragedy and bring them forward for justice.”
“We continue to wish all those injured a full recovery and hope they have the support and care they need during this difficult time. We remain committed to conducting a thorough investigation, identifying those responsible, and ensuring accountability,” said Simington.
Bloomington police responded to reports of a shooting at 1:30 am on Sunday, confirming a total of nine people, ages 16 to 22, were shot.
In addition to Dettloff’s fatal wounds, victims include a 19-year-old man who was shot in the arm; a 22-year-old man who suffered gunshot wounds to the arm and abdomen; an 18-year-old woman who suffered gunshot wounds to her leg, a 16-year-old girl who was shot in her arm; a 19-year-old woman who was wounded in the ankle; an 18-year-old woman who was shot in the leg; and a 19-year-old woman who was wounded in the ankle.
Tributes have flowed in online for the teenager, who has been described as a “vibrant and beloved member” of the community and cheerleading team.
“Giana brought joy and light to those around her,” an Instagram post shared to the North Central College Instagram page read.
“Our hearts go out to her family, friends, teammates and fellow students. She will be deeply missed by all who had the privilege of knowing her.”
“No words can ease the pain of her loss, but please know that we mourn with you and are here to support you. Our hearts are also with those injured in the shooting and their loved ones,” said North Central President Abiódún Gòkè-Paríolá.
Dettloff’s former high school cheerleading squad also paid tribute to the teen in a heartfelt Instagram post on Monday.
“We are absolutely heartbroken about the tragic death of Giana Dettloff. Giana was not only a sweet and caring soul, but she also had [a] massive positive influence on our community,’ the post read, alongside a carousel of pictures.
“She respected others and made our school a better place. Her impact will not be forgotten.”
