Man Sentenced to 24 Years for Shooting at Illinois Amusement Park

Meco Norris convicted of aggravated battery for 2021 incident at Safari Land in Villa Park

Feb. 22, 2026 at 4:55pm

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A 30-year-old Chicago man named Meco Norris has been sentenced to 24 years in prison for a shooting inside an indoor amusement park in Villa Park, Illinois in 2021. Norris was convicted on three counts of aggravated battery for the incident, which occurred in front of dozens of children and parents at Safari Land.

Why it matters

The shooting at Safari Land raised serious concerns about public safety and the need for stricter security measures at family-friendly entertainment venues, especially those catering to children. The lengthy prison sentence handed down to Norris underscores the gravity of his actions and the local community's commitment to holding violent offenders accountable.

The details

According to prosecutors, shortly before 7 p.m. on November 13, 2021, Norris was at Safari Land for a birthday party when he pulled out a gun and shot another man three times in front of dozens of children and parents. The victim was taken to the hospital to be treated for his injuries. Norris then fled the scene and hid the gun in a nearby residential neighborhood. He was arrested the next day at his home in Chicago.

  • On November 13, 2021, the shooting occurred at Safari Land indoor amusement park in Villa Park, Illinois.
  • On December 2021, Norris was convicted on three counts of aggravated battery.
  • On February 18, 2026, Norris was sentenced to 24 years in prison.

The players

Meco Norris

A 30-year-old Chicago man who was convicted and sentenced to 24 years in prison for a shooting at an indoor amusement park in Villa Park, Illinois in 2021.

Robert Berlin

The DuPage County State's Attorney who described Norris' actions as "among the most egregious displays of disregard for public safety" he has seen in his 38-year career as a prosecutor.

Joseph Bugos

The DuPage County Judge who sentenced Norris to 24 years in prison, with the sentences for the three counts of aggravated battery to be served consecutively.

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What they’re saying

“In my thirty-eight years as a prosecutor, Mr. Norris' actions are among the most egregious displays of disregard for public safety I have ever seen. With dozens of young children just feet away, I shudder to think of the potential loss of life Mr. Norris' actions could have caused.”

— Robert Berlin, DuPage County State's Attorney (cbsnews.com)

What’s next

Norris must serve at least 85% of his 24-year sentence before he is eligible for parole.

The takeaway

This case highlights the urgent need for enhanced security measures and stricter gun laws to protect families and children at public entertainment venues. It also underscores the importance of holding violent offenders fully accountable for their actions in order to deter future incidents and keep communities safe.