ALTON – The Alton Police Department said today that Willie L. Carter, 53, of Alton, has been charged in connection with a series of armed robberies and business break-ins in the Upper Alton area during the summer of 2026, including two robberies in June, an attempted burglary later that month and a burglary in July 2026.
Carter was taken into custody July 17, 2026, and the Madison County State’s Attorney’s Office subsequently issued the charges today, police said.
Carter has been charged with the following felony offenses:
• Count I – Armed Robbery: June 8, 2026, armed robbery of the Hit N Run convenience store, 1818 Washington Avenue.
• Count II – Armed Robbery: June 18, 2026, armed robbery of Walgreens, 1650 Washington Avenue.
• Count III – Attempted Burglary: June 23, 2026, attempted burglary of the Shell gas station, 2500 Brown Street.
• Count IV – Burglary: July 7, 2026, burglary of the BP Amoco, 4200 College Avenue.
During the two armed robberies, investigators allege Carter entered the businesses wearing a mask, displayed a handgun and demanded money from employees before fleeing on foot. No injuries were reported in either incident.
“These incidents understandably caused concern within our business community, and I hope these charges provide reassurance that those who commit violent crimes in Alton will be thoroughly investigated and held accountable,” Chief Jarrett Ford said.
Anyone with information about the incidents or Carter is encouraged to contact the Criminal Investigation Division at 618-463-3505 ext. 634.
All individuals charged are presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.
