Break in Cold Case: Decatur Police Make Arrests in 2011 Teen Shooting Case After More Than a Decade

Police in Illinois claim that they have finally captured those who were responsible for the shooting death of a teenager who died during a robbery that took place more than a decade ago.

According to a press release issued by the Decatur Police Department, on August 4, 2011, Caleb Witty, who was 17 years old at the time, was heading home from a street fair with his sister, who was 14 years old. At that time, two individuals attempted to rob the two teenagers. According to the authorities, Caleb was killed when he was shot in the chest and the arm when he was primarily concerned with protecting his younger sister.

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On June 5, the police made the announcement that two individuals, Michael I. Wallace, 34, and Bobby Gipson, 34, have been charged with numerous counts of first-degree murder in connection with the shooting that occurred in 2011.

According to the statement that was released by the agency, “These arrests mark a crucial step toward justice for Caleb Witty and hopefully bring a measure of solace to his family and friends who have endured years of uncertainty and grief.”

“Caleb Witty was a young man who was merely attempting to take pleasure in spending the evening together his sister at the Decatur Celebration. Indeed, he was killed for no apparent reason.

The insanity of this crime is beyond the ability of words to adequately explain. His untimely passing was a tragic loss that left a profound emptiness in the hearts of those who were fortunate enough to have known him.

The specific circumstances that led to the arrests of Wallace and Gipson were not disclosed by the police department.

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According to a statement released by the department, “the progress in this case is the result of relentless efforts by our dedicated law enforcement team, significant assistance from the States Attorney’s office, collaboration with state and federal agencies, and invaluable assistance from the community.”

Wallace is currently being held in custody in Illinois, according to the records of the jail, while Gipson is currently awaiting extradition from Tennessee.

There is a lack of clarity on whether either party has submitted a plea.