The community of Cahokia Heights, Illinois, is mourning the deaths of Bruce A. Mason and Laniya Joyce White following a tragic double homicide.
On the night of December 12, police responded to the 3900 block of Walnut Street, where they found 67-year-old Bruce A. Mason of Maryville shot inside his vehicle. He was transported to a hospital but sadly died from his injuries.
As the Major Case Squad of Greater St. Louis investigated, they obtained a search warrant for a nearby home and discovered the body of 44-year-old Laniya Joyce White, who had also been shot.
Bruce Mason is remembered as a familiar and quiet face in the community. Laniya White was a mother of three whose family is heartbroken by the loss.
Update on Investigation: Since the initial reports, authorities have announced a major development. Shawn L. Williams, 54, has been charged with two counts of first-degree murder in connection with the deaths.
Police stated that the shooting was not random; the victims and the suspect were acquaintances, and investigators believe the incident was targeted.
