Peoria County Deputy Receives Hometown Hero Award

PEORIA, Ill. - As part of the United States Freedom 250 celebration, U.S. Attorney's Offices across the country have been honoring community members during the month of May. The honorees have shown exemplary service going above and beyond in their capacity as law enforcement, public safety, or victim support.

The Central District of Illinois has recognized Peoria County Sheriff's Deputy Jack Evans who, on January 31, 2026, conducted a lawful traffic stop and subsequent foot pursuit of a fleeing suspect on West Garden Street in Peoria. During the pursuit, the suspect abruptly turned and fired multiple rounds at Deputy Evans at close range, striking him in the leg and torso.

Despite being ambushed, wounded, and knocked to the ground, Deputy Evans remained composed and mission-focused, providing information to other law enforcement officers that helped lead to the suspect's arrest. Deputy Evans's commitment to protecting the community even while gravely injured reflects the highest traditions of law enforcement service. In honor of his steady professionalism while wounded, Deputy Evans accepted the Hometown Hero Award from Acting U.S. Attorney Gregory M. Gilmore on May 18, 2026.

"Deputy Evans's brave actions and commitment to public safety during a moment of personal peril made him a natural choice for the Hometown Hero Award," said Acting United States Attorney Gilmore. "We are immensely grateful for his service and for his recovery."

"Deputy Evans demonstrated true bravery under fire, and we're thankful he continues to recover." said Peoria County Sheriff Chris Watkins. "I want to thank Acting U.S. Attorney Gilmore for coming to Peoria to recognize his actions and present the Hometown Hero Award."