Peoria County Deputy Shot During Traffic Stop

Suspect fled scene and was later apprehended after a two-hour search.

Feb. 1, 2026 at 11:55am

A Peoria County sheriff's deputy was seriously injured after being shot multiple times by a passenger who fled a traffic stop on Saturday evening. The suspect, 51-year-old Larry D. Bell, was later found and arrested on charges including attempted murder and drug possession.

Why it matters

Attacks on law enforcement officers are a serious concern, as they put public safety at risk and undermine community trust in police. This incident highlights the dangers officers face during routine traffic stops and the need for continued training and support to keep both officers and the public safe.

The details

According to police, Peoria County sheriff's deputies conducted a traffic stop in the 1000 block of South Western Avenue just before 10 p.m. on Saturday. As the deputies approached the vehicle, a passenger got out and fled on foot. The suspect then fired multiple shots at a deputy, striking him twice. The injured deputy was taken to a local hospital and underwent surgery, and is now in stable condition. Police later found the suspect, Larry D. Bell, inside an abandoned building two hours after the shooting. Bell was arrested and charged with attempted murder, armed violence, aggravated battery with a firearm, and drug possession.

  • The traffic stop occurred just before 10 p.m. on Saturday, February 1, 2026.
  • The suspect was found and apprehended about two hours after the initial shooting incident.

The players

Peoria County Sheriff's Office

The law enforcement agency whose deputy was shot during the traffic stop incident.

Larry D. Bell

The 51-year-old suspect who allegedly shot the Peoria County deputy and was later arrested on multiple charges.

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What’s next

The judge will decide on Tuesday whether to grant bail for Larry D. Bell.

The takeaway

This incident highlights the dangers officers face during routine traffic stops and the need for continued training and support to keep both officers and the public safe. It also raises concerns about repeat offenders and the effectiveness of the criminal justice system in addressing violent crime.