Peoria Standard

In Peoria, Illinois, Keshawn Williams, 20, admitted guilt to armed robbery linked to a failed Facebook Marketplace heist in January 2024 that resulted in one fatality. The court has set the sentencing date for August 29.

Williams is among five individuals facing charges related to this incident. The first guilty plea was recorded in September 2024 when Jalyn Branscumb, 19, received a sentence of 22 years from the Illinois Department of Corrections.

The events unfolded on January 15 when two people traveled to Peoria intending to buy a vehicle arranged via Facebook Marketplace. They were directed to an alley where several individuals, including Williams, attempted an armed robbery.

During the confrontation, one buyer produced a legally owned firearm. An exchange of gunfire ensued and resulted in the death of one would-be robber. Authorities did not charge the purchaser as it was deemed self-defense with a lawfully owned weapon.

Authorities identified suspects using Flock camera images and surveillance footage. Besides Williams and Branscumb, those charged include Sontarrius Williams, 28; Johnathan Williams, 21; and Tanarius Kingcade, 19. The cases against these individuals are ongoing.