Murder and Attempted Murder Charges Filed Against Hammond

ALTON - The Alton Police Department announces that formal charges have been filed in connection with the Monday, June 1, 2026, shooting that occurred in the 3400 block of Milton Drive. Following a review of the investigation by the Madison County State’s Attorney’s Office, led by State’s Attorney Tom Haine, John A. Hammond, 46, of Alton, Illinois, has been charged with the following offenses:

• Count I – First Degree Murder

• Count II – First Degree Murder

• Count III – Attempt First Degree Murder

• Count IV – Aggravated Battery with a Firearm

• Count V – Possession of a Firearm by a Repeat Felony Offender

• Count VI – Aggravated Battery

Hammond was charged following a review of the investigation by the Madison County State’s Attorney’s Office, led by State’s Attorney Tom Haine.

Police said officers responded at about 7:57 a.m. June 1, to a residence in the 3400 block of Milton Drive in Alton after receiving a report that two people had been shot inside the home. When officers arrived, they found two victims suffering from gunshot wounds.

The woman who died was identified as Mariah R. Fearn, 32, of Alton. A male victim suffered serious injuries and was transported for advanced medical treatment, police said.

Investigators quickly developed information that led them to a residence in Carlinville, Illinois, where they located the vehicle Hammond allegedly used to flee the scene, according to police. Hammond was taken into custody there and will be held at the Madison County Jail pending a detention hearing.

“This case reflects the dedication and professionalism of our officers and law enforcement partners who worked tirelessly to identify, locate, and apprehend the suspect within hours of this tragic incident,” Alton Police Chief Jarrett Ford said. “We remain committed to seeking justice for the victims and their families while ensuring the safety of our community.”

The Alton Police Department said it thanked the Illinois State Police, the Madison County Coroner’s Office, the Carlinville Police Department, the Macoupin County Sheriff’s Office, the Metro East SWAT Team, and the Madison County State’s Attorney’s Office for assisting in the investigation.

Anyone with information about the incident is asked to contact the Alton Police Department at (618) 463-3505, extension 634.

Police said the charges and statements are based on probable cause. Hammond is presumed innocent unless proven guilty in a court of law.

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