EAST ST. LOUIS — The Illinois State Police are investigating an officer-involved shooting that left a 40-year-old woman dead near a convenience store in East St. Louis on Sunday, Jan. 4, 2026.

The incident occurred around 10:08 p.m. on Sunday, Jan. 4, 2026, near the 4500 block of South State Street in East St. Louis as troopers were responding to a report of a stolen vehicle. According to preliminary information, troopers attempted to stop the vehicle, but the driver reversed and struck an Illinois State Police squad car.

The driver then drove toward a trooper, who discharged his firearm, striking the driver, identified as Rachel E. Tarrence of Maryville, Illinois.

Troopers immediately called for emergency medical services and provided aid at the scene. Tarrence was transported to a local hospital, where she was pronounced deceased. No troopers were injured during the incident.

The trooper involved has been placed on administrative status pending the investigation’s outcome. The Illinois State Police Division of Internal Investigation Special Agents are conducting the inquiry in accordance with the Police and Community Relations Improvement Act and the Illinois State Police Law.

The investigation remains open and ongoing, with evidence processing and interviews underway. Upon completion, the findings will be submitted to the St. Clair County State’s Attorney’s Office for review. No further details have been released.

All suspects are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.

More like this:

St. Clair Prosecutor Declines Charges in Trooper Shooting

Jul 21, 2026

ISP Announces Results In Violent Crime Suppression Detail In Metro East Region

Jul 11, 2026

Fatal Pedestrian Struck Investigation Underway

2 days ago

Illinois State Police Probe Deadly I-255 Collision

Jul 17, 2026

Anthony Bradley Of East St. Louis Gets 15 Years in Federal Gun Case

Sep 2, 2026