Major Case Squad of Greater St. Louis
PRESS RELEASE
For Immediate Release
July 29, 2025 – 11:30 AM
Major Case Squad Announces Arrest and Charges in Madison Homicide
Madison, IL – After working approximately 58 leads in just three days, the Major Case Squad of Greater St. Louis has announced the arrest of Rayontae M. Pearson, a 22-year-old Black male from Madison, Illinois, in connection with the July 26, 2025, homicide at the intersection of Washington Avenue and Wayne Lanter Avenue in Madison, where a 16-year-old male was shot and killed.
Today, Madison County State’s Attorney Tom Haine filed the following charges against Pearson:
An arrest warrant was issued, and Pearson is being held pending a Detention Hearing.
Throughout the investigation, the Major Case Squad received support from the Illinois State Police Crime Scene Investigators, the Madison County Coroner’s Office, and the Madison County State’s Attorney’s Office. The arrest and charges of Pearson is the direct result of regional teamwork and the tireless efforts of all agencies involved with the Major Case Squad.
“I want to commend Chief Jeff Bridick and the dedicated officers of the Madison Police Department for their quick response and outstanding collaboration with the Major Case Squad in this investigation,” said State’s Attorney Tom Haine. “I also commend Wood River Police Sgt. Brent Rombach, who is serving as the Major Case Squad Deputy Commander for this investigation, along with the investigators who are working under his direction. The professionalism and urgency of the officers and the investigators resulted in these charges. This investigation again demonstrated the strength of regional collaboration among law enforcement agencies.”
Haine also praised the Violent Crimes Unit prosecutors within the Madison County State’s Attorney’s Office for their key role in reviewing evidence and swiftly filing charges.
“For 60 years, the Major Case Squad has handled the most violent and complex crimes in the Greater St. Louis region,” said Sergeant Justin Biggs of the Monroe County Sheriff’s Office, who serves as the Illinois Chief Deputy Commander for the Major Case Squad. “This arrest once again highlights the dedication, professionalism, and coordination among our investigators. We are proud of the outcome of this case and remain committed to pursuing justice for victims and their families.”
The defendant is presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.
Lt. Andrew Pierson
Public Information Officer
Major Case Squad of Greater St. Louis
X (Twitter): @MajorCaseSTL
For media follow-up – contact Lt. Andrew Pierson at (618) 433-8928
apierson@cityofaltonil.gov
