Ottawa Man Charged in Saturday Shooting

Suspect faces multiple felonies including aggravated battery with a firearm and aggravated discharge near a school.

Apr. 19, 2026 at 4:48pm

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An extreme close-up photograph of a spent shell casing on a dark, textured surface, lit by a harsh, direct camera flash, conceptually illustrating the evidence of a shooting incident.A close-up of physical evidence from the Zeller Inn shooting exposes the stark reality of gun violence in the community.Ottawa Today

Ottawa police have charged 23-year-old B.J. Redmond with several felonies, including aggravated battery with a firearm and aggravated discharge of a firearm within 1,000 feet of a school, in connection with an early Saturday shooting at the Zeller Inn that left one person injured.

Why it matters

Gun violence near schools is a major concern for many communities, and this incident highlights the need for continued efforts to address the root causes of such crimes and ensure public safety.

The details

According to police, Redmond was arrested on Sunday and charged with four felonies related to the shooting. The two most serious charges are Class X felonies that carry six to 30 years in prison with no possibility of probation. Redmond is also charged with violation of conditions of pretrial release (firearm) and aggravated unlawful use of a weapon, both Class 4 felonies.

  • The shooting occurred early Saturday morning at the Zeller Inn.
  • Redmond was arrested on Sunday and taken to La Salle County Jail.

The players

B.J. Redmond

A 23-year-old Ottawa resident who has been charged with multiple felonies related to the Saturday shooting.

Ottawa Police

The law enforcement agency that investigated the shooting and made the arrest.

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What they’re saying

“At this time, the incident is believed to be isolated to a dispute between individuals and there is no perceived threat to the public at this time.”

— Kyle Booras, Ottawa Police Captain

What’s next

Redmond is expected to appear in La Salle County Circuit Court on Monday to be formally presented with the charges and potentially stand for a detention hearing.

The takeaway

This incident underscores the ongoing challenge of gun violence in communities and the need for comprehensive approaches to address the underlying factors that contribute to such crimes, including mental health support, conflict resolution programs, and stronger gun regulations.