Sara E. Mason, Janis L. Mason Obituary, Death – Authorities have reported that a 24-year-old man, John R. Lyons, was fatally shot by police in Berwyn after a series of violent incidents that included killing three people downstate and two dogs. The sequence of events began on Wednesday evening and unfolded over several hours across Illinois.
Fatal Shootings in Mahomet
Police in Mahomet, a town in central Illinois, responded to reports of a shooting at a home in the 1100 block of Riverside Drive shortly after 9:30 p.m. on Wednesday. Inside the residence, officers found three victims suffering from life-threatening injuries. The victims were identified as Sara E. Mason, 26, who was pronounced dead at the scene, and Janis L. Mason, 61, along with Caleb M. Mason, 23, both of whom succumbed to their injuries at Carle Foundation Hospital.
Details surrounding the motive for the shootings remain unclear, but authorities believe Lyons was responsible for the killings. The incident sent shockwaves through the Mahomet community as investigators worked to piece together what had transpired.
Violent Standoff in Berwyn
Approximately two hours later, Berwyn police received a report of an armed man near the 1800 block of Home Avenue. When officers arrived, Lyons fled the scene on foot and broke into a home on Wenonah Avenue. Inside the residence, he fatally shot two dogs, further escalating the situation.
Lyons then moved eastward to a yard on Home Avenue, where he ignored repeated police commands to surrender. According to authorities, Lyons opened fire on the officers, who responded by returning fire. Lyons was struck and killed in the exchange. None of the responding officers were injured.
Investigation Underway
The Illinois State Police Public Integrity Task Force has launched an investigation into the events leading up to Lyons’ death. Officials are working to determine the exact timeline and motives behind the series of violent acts.
Authorities are asking for assistance from the public, particularly anyone with information or video footage of the incidents. The Berwyn Police Department has provided a confidential tip line at 708-749-6564 for those wishing to contribute to the ongoing investigation.
A Community in Mourning
The tragedy has left two communities—Mahomet and Berwyn—in mourning as they grapple with the senseless loss of life. Sara Mason, Janis Mason, and Caleb Mason are remembered by friends and family for their kindness and vibrant lives. Meanwhile, Berwyn residents are shocked by the violence that unfolded in their neighborhood.
Officials are continuing to investigate Lyons’ actions and motives, seeking answers to how and why these horrific events occurred. In the meantime, local authorities and community leaders are offering support to those affected by this tragedy.