Edwardsville Teen Identified As Shooting Victim

WOOD RIVER – On May 16, 2024, at 11:59 p.m., the Wood River Police Department received multiple 911 calls, from the area of 133 Thompson St. advising of a single gunshot with a subject down in the parking lot, bleeding, next to a gun. Wood River Police Officers and numerous other police agencies responded to the scene.

Investigators with the Wood River Police Department took over the scene and have been working on the incident to determine the details. One person was pronounced dead at the scene. That person is identified as:

Kaden W. Topal

Male

Age: 18

Edwardsville IL. 62025

An autopsy was conducted under the guidance of the Madison County Coroner’s Office. The cause of death was determined to be a gunshot wound.

Investigators have determined a home invasion had taken place, shortly before Topal was shot, at one of the apartments located at 133 Thompson St., Wood River Illinois.

The case remains under investigation by the Wood River Police Department. More information will be released as the details become available.

Again, “I want to reassure the community this unfortunate incident was not a random act of violence. Our preliminary investigation indicates that the individuals involved were known to each other, and this appears to be an isolated event. We are actively working to gather more information and ensure the safety of our residents. Your safety remains our top priority, and we will keep you informed as we learn more. Thank you for your cooperation and understanding during this time.”- Chief Brad Wells