EDWARDSVILLE — A mother filed a wrongful death suit after her son was allegedly killed by a stray bullet fired by intoxicated party guests.
Sukeena Gunner, individually and as special administrator for the Estate of Jaylon McKenzie, deceased, filed a complaint May 4 in the Madison County Circuit Court against Celestine Williams, Darrien Williams, Terry Hawthrone, Kendrick Lewis, Jaylen Staten, Larrion Shelby, Maurice Dickerson, Dedrick Dillard, John Doe #1, John Doe #2, John Doe #3 and John Doe #4, alleging wrongful death.
Gunner, who is the biological mother of Jaylon McKenzie, alleges in her complaint that Celestine Williams hosted and "authorized" Darrien Williams to "throw multiple parties" at a premises in Madison County where invitees paid to attend. Gunner claims it was "specifically advertised" that alcohol would be served at the parties, even to those under 18 years old. She alleges the parties often resulted in physical violence and "reckless discharge of firearms."
Gunner alleges McKenzie attended one of the defendants' parties on May 4, 2019, which had between 200-500 guests in attendance. She claims several of the defendants, who were intoxicated, began firing their guns into the crowd. She claims her son was hit by a bullet, which resulted in his death.
Gunner seeks compensation of more than $50,000, interest, trial by jury and all other proper relief. She is represented by Emery Reusch and Todd Nissenholtz of Cofman Townsley LLP in St. Louis.
Madison County Circuit Court case number 21-L-000541