Eric Beasley, 24, was shot and killed on December 20, 1986, on the 800 block of North Randolph Street in Champaign, Illinois. He was found about 11:45 p.m. and taken to Burnham Hospital, where he was pronounced dead shortly after midnight on December 21. The autopsy found six gunshot wounds; one fatal bullet entered through his hip and traveled toward his heart.

Witnesses heard several shots but no one actually saw the shooter or the events leading up to the shooting. Investigators received tips and anonymous calls and submitted a Colt .32 caliber weapon to the crime lab, but no direct evidence tied a suspect to the killing. Reports in the weeks before Beasley’s death mention conflicts over drugs and money, a troubled and reportedly abusive relationship with his girlfriend, and increasing drug dependence. Possible mishandling of forensic evidence, including residue swabbing, has been cited as a factor in the stalled investigation.

Anyone with information that could help solve this cold case is asked to contact the Champaign Police Department.