NEW CANTON, IL – Authorities in Pike County are investigating a deadly shooting spree that left two people dead, one person critically injured, and the suspect dead from an apparent self-inflicted gunshot wound. The incident unfolded early on Thursday morning, October 2, 2025, and has sent shockwaves through the New Canton community.

The Tragic Incident

The Pike County Sheriff’s Office confirmed that 67-year-old Gerald E. Waligorski, of New Canton, was identified as the suspect in the deadly shooting spree. The violence began around 6 a.m. when deputies were dispatched to a home in the 300 block of Mississippi Street in New Canton after reports of gunfire. Upon arrival, officers found Waligorski’s wife suffering from a gunshot wound. She was quickly airlifted to a nearby hospital for emergency treatment.

The victim, whose identity has not been disclosed, told police that her husband, Gerald Waligorski, had shot her before threatening to harm her parents. Based on her statement, officers immediately conducted a welfare check at the residence of her parents in the 200 block of Monroe Street. Tragically, the authorities found both of her parents deceased from gunshot wounds at their home. Their identities have not yet been released pending notification of family members.

The Search for the Suspect

As law enforcement searched for Waligorski, local authorities issued a warning to residents to remain indoors, describing the situation as an active shooter threat. The nearby Griggsville-Perry School District, Western School District, and Pikeland CUSD 10 were placed on soft lockdown as a precautionary measure to ensure the safety of students and staff while the authorities worked to secure the area.

For several hours, police and SWAT teams conducted an intense search for Waligorski, who had fled the scene after committing the murders. Authorities eventually executed a search warrant at Waligorski’s residence. There, they discovered his body, dead from an apparent self-inflicted gunshot wound.

The search for answers continues, with law enforcement agencies investigating the motive behind the killings. The Pike County Sheriff’s Office has yet to provide further details, and the investigation remains active.

The Aftermath and Impact on the Community

The tragic events have left the Pike County community in shock and mourning. The senseless violence has raised questions about the motive behind Waligorski’s actions. Residents are grappling with the grief of losing two community members in such a violent and disturbing manner.

Local officials have reassured the public that the area is now secure and that there is no ongoing threat to the community. The Hull Kinderhook Fire Protection District confirmed that all lockdown measures have been lifted, and law enforcement agencies are working diligently to gather more information about the incident.

“We are devastated by what has happened in our community,” said Pike County Sheriff’s Deputy Zach Orr. “Our hearts go out to the victims’ families, and we are committed to ensuring that justice is served. The circumstances surrounding these tragic events are still under investigation, and we ask that everyone respect the privacy of the families involved during this difficult time.”

The Victims’ Legacy

As law enforcement continues to investigate, family and friends of the victims are mourning their loss. The wife of Gerald Waligorski, who was left critically injured but survived the attack, is now faced with the heartbreak of losing both of her parents and grappling with the violence inflicted by her own husband. The pain and trauma caused by this act of violence will be felt for years to come, as the families and loved ones of the victims begin the difficult process of healing.

The identities of the victims have not been released, but the grief felt by the community is evident. One neighbor expressed their shock at the brutality of the killings, saying, “It’s hard to imagine something like this happening in our small town. Our hearts go out to the families, and we’ll be doing everything we can to support them.”

The larger community of New Canton is also coming to terms with the loss. Many have expressed their sadness over the deaths, with local officials planning community support initiatives to help the affected families cope with their grief.

The Motive Behind the Violence

At this stage, the motive behind the killings remains unclear, and the Pike County Sheriff’s Office is continuing its investigation. Authorities are exploring several possible factors that may have led to the violence, including the possibility of domestic disputes or unresolved issues within the family.

“We are looking into all aspects of the situation and trying to understand what could have led to such a senseless act of violence,” Deputy Orr added. “While the investigation continues, our primary focus remains on providing support to the families affected by this tragedy.”

Local Community’s Response and Support

In the aftermath of the shooting spree, local organizations and residents have come together to offer support to the victims’ families. A community vigil is being planned in honor of the victims, and neighbors have shown up to help with funeral arrangements and provide meals and emotional support during this difficult time.

Local church leaders and grief counselors have also offered their services to help those affected by the tragedy, acknowledging that the emotional toll of such an event can be overwhelming. “This is a time for our community to come together,” said one local pastor. “We may never understand why something like this happened, but we will find strength in our unity as we support the families.”

Conclusion

The deadly shooting spree in Pike County has left a deep scar on the community, with two lives lost and one person critically injured. The tragedy has raised important questions about domestic violence and the factors that can lead to such devastating acts of violence. As law enforcement continues its investigation, the focus remains on supporting the families and loved ones who are left to grieve the loss of their loved ones.

While the immediate danger has passed, the emotional and psychological impacts of this tragedy will be felt for years to come. The community of New Canton is now united in their grief, offering support to those who need it most. In the face of this tragedy, they are finding strength in each other as they move forward, honoring the memories of the victims and striving to heal from this senseless violence.

As more details emerge, authorities will continue to update the public on their findings, and the community remains hopeful that justice will be served for the victims and their families.