Armed robbery suspect shot by liquor store employee on West State, second suspect sought

Online Staff Report

At approximately 12:12 a.m., Saturday, March 16, Winnebago County Sheriff’s deputies were sent to Mosey’s Liquor Store, 4203 W. State St., in reference to a silent holdup alarm.

Upon arrival, the deputies determined an attempted armed robbery had taken place and one of the suspects had been shot by an employee.

The suspect was identified as James E. Taylor, 20.

Medical was immediately called, and Taylor was transported to a local hospital, where he is listed in serious condition. He is under police guard.

Preliminary investigation has determined that two subjects entered the store, both armed and with their faces covered, to rob the store.

An employee of the store obtained a revolver and fired shots at the suspects. The suspects also fired shots. Taylor was struck and the second suspect fled the store. A suspect weapon along with the weapon used by the employee was recovered.

There were three employees in the store at the time, and no customers. None of the employees was injured.

The suspect who fled is described as a black male, 5-foot-10 to 6-foot, wearing dark clothing with a hoodie and his face covered.

Taylor is charged with attempted armed robbery and aggravated discharge of a firearm.

Anyone with information about the second subject is asked to call the Winnebago County Sheriff’s Department at (815) 319-6300 or Crime Stoppers at (815) 963-7867.

Posted March 18, 2013