Lake County Gazette

A Waukegan man has been charged in connection with the shooting death of an associate in Beach Park on February 9. The Lake County Sheriff's Office announced that Cyncere L. Tillman, 24, of the 300 block of Green Bay Road, Waukegan, faces charges of first-degree murder.

The Lake County Gazette reported on February 10 that sheriff's deputies responded to a 911 call reporting shots fired at 12:10 p.m. on February 9 in the 39300 block of Melbourne Court in Beach Park. Spent shell casings and shattered glass from a car were found at the scene. The gunshot victim, Tavontee Fox, was taken to Vista East Medical Center in Waukegan and was pronounced dead shortly after arrival.

According to a news release from the sheriff's office dated February 19, detectives revealed that Tillman had arranged to meet with Fox, an associate of his, near Fox's house on Melbourne Court. An argument ensued during their meeting, leading Tillman to produce a firearm and fire multiple shots at Fox while he was seated in the vehicle's passenger seat. The driver also sustained injuries. Fox died shortly after being transported to the hospital by the unidentified driver.

The release further said that evidence and investigative work identified Tillman as the suspect. He was arrested without incident on February 18 in the 300 block of Washington Street, Waukegan.

The Lake County State's Attorney's office approved two counts of first-degree murder against Tillman. He remains held at the Lake County Jail pending an initial court hearing scheduled for Wednesday. Detectives continue their investigation into the incident. It is important to note that defendants are presumed innocent unless proven guilty in a court of law.

Sheriff John D. Idleburg commented on the case: "Our detectives have been investigating this homicide nonstop since it occurred," he said according to the release. "Because of their dedication and tenacious investigative work, the man responsible for this crime is in custody and charged with murder. We are also thankful for the ongoing collaboration with the Lake County State’s Attorney’s Office."