Peoria Standard

June 16, 2025, Peoria, IL – On Friday, June 13, State's Attorney Jodi Hoos filed first-degree murder charges against two teenagers involved in a fatal incident at a tow yard. A detention hearing was held today for Jaylin J. Polnitz, 16, and Terrance J. Shaw, 18. The judge decided that Shaw, who is alleged to have driven the stolen vehicle during the incident, will remain in custody until his trial. Polnitz, however, was released under specific conditions due to his lack of prior criminal history and being identified as the passenger.

The conditions for Polnitz's release include GPS electronic monitoring, no contact with individuals involved in the incident, and home confinement.

The incident occurred on Monday, June 9. Police responded to Billie Jo’s Towing after receiving a report of a stolen vehicle. Upon arrival, officers found William Collier, aged 70, being transported to the hospital where he later died.

Surveillance footage showed two individuals identified as Polnitz and Shaw entering the tow yard through an open gate and stealing a vehicle. As they attempted to flee, an employee tried to close the gate. The vehicle sped through it causing it to swing open and hit two men nearby; one was injured while Collier was fatally struck.

The investigation is ongoing. Anyone with information is encouraged to contact the Peoria Police Department at 309-673-4521.