Boy Shot in Targeted Attack in Aurora, Illinois

Police say the incident appears to have been a targeted attack with no ongoing threat to the community.

Published on Feb. 16, 2026

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A male juvenile was shot early Sunday morning in Aurora, Illinois in what police believe was a targeted attack. The boy was taken to the hospital in stable condition and later released. Police are asking anyone with information about the shooting to come forward.

Why it matters

Targeted attacks on minors are concerning incidents that raise public safety issues in the community. While police say there is no ongoing threat, the shooting highlights the need for more information to understand the circumstances and motives behind the attack.

The details

According to authorities, officers responded around 2:15 a.m. to a reported shooting in the 300 block of Sunset Avenue and found the victim, described as a male juvenile, suffering from a gunshot wound to the lower body. The boy was taken to a hospital in stable condition and later released.

  • The shooting occurred around 2:15 a.m. on Sunday, February 15, 2026.

The players

Aurora Police

The police department in Aurora, Illinois that is investigating the shooting incident.

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What’s next

Police are asking anyone with information about the shooting to call investigators at 630-256-5500 or submit an anonymous tip to Aurora Area Crime Stoppers at 630-892-1000 or www.p3tips.com/135. Crime Stoppers offers cash rewards up to $5,000 for information leading to the arrest of felony offenders.

The takeaway

This targeted attack on a minor is a concerning incident that highlights the need for the community to come together and provide any information to the police to help understand the circumstances and motives behind the shooting, and ensure the safety of all residents.