Alton’s Public Safety Network Helps Secure Charges in Park Shooting

ALTON - The Alton Police Department has filed felony charges against a 20-year-old Alton man in connection with a shooting at Salu Park that police said followed a physical altercation on April 27, 2026.

Police said officers were dispatched at about 12:47 p.m. after receiving a 911 call reporting a fight at the park and a firearm being discharged. Officers determined that after the fight, a male retrieved a handgun and fired multiple shots in the direction of several individuals, according to the department. Police said the individuals involved were known to each other.

The suspect and others he was with fled the scene, police said. During their flight, the firearm was discarded, and officers searched the area and located the weapon, the department said.

Police said video surveillance footage from cameras placed throughout the city captured the incident. Detectives conducted follow-up interviews and continued the investigation before presenting the case to the Madison County State’s Attorney’s Office, led by Tom Haine, police said.

As a result of that review, Jacob C. McAfoos, a 20-year-old male from Alton, has been charged with the following:

• Count I: Aggravated Discharge of a Firearm (Class 1 Felony)

• Count II: Aggravated Discharge of a Firearm (Class 1 Felony)

• Count III: Possession of a Firearm with Defaced Serial Number (Class 3 Felony)

• Count IV: Aggravated Unlawful Possession of Weapons (Class 4 Felony)

• Count V: Reckless Discharge of a Firearm (Class 4 Felony)

McAfoos is currently in custody and was ordered to be remanded to the Madison County Jail pending a detention hearing. Chief Jarrett Ford stated, “This case highlights the critical role that technology plays in modern policing.

The City of Alton has made significant investments in public safety infrastructure, including strategically placed camera systems, and this incident clearly demonstrates their value. The ability to capture real-time evidence allowed officers to quickly identify what occurred and take swift action. We will continue to leverage these tools to enhance safety and hold offenders accountable.”

The Alton Police Department encourages anyone with additional information related to this incident to contact the department at (618) 463-3505 or submit anonymous tips through Crime Stoppers.

All individuals charged are presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.

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