City of Champaign News

Echo Staff Member Attends Rantoul’s Task Force Meeting

Mary Catherine Roberson, Community Relations Specialist for the Office of Equity, Community and Human Rights, attended Rantoul’s Task Force meeting on Saturday, May 22. Community members shared their safety concerns and discussed a plan of action to address rising community violence.


2021 Concrete Street Improvement Project (O’Donnell Drive from Devonshire Drive north to the Cul-de-Sac)

As part of the City’s 2021 Concrete Street Improvements Project, the pavement on O’Donnell Drive from Devonshire Drive north to the cul-de-sac will be replaced. Weather permitting, work is tentatively set to begin on Tuesday, June 1, 2021. The pavement replacement will be completed in October 2021. The project will include lawn restoration in the […]



City of Champaign Issues Statement Regarding Preliminary Findings of Investigation Into Officer Involved Shooting

The tragedy that unfolded during the early morning of May 19th that claimed the life of Police Officer Chris Oberheim has shaken our City organization and community and caused many to reflect on the dangers that all law enforcement officers face daily. The State’s Attorney’s preliminary findings regarding the investigation affirms that Officers Oberheim and […]


Funeral Procession Route Announced for Officer Oberheim

The public is highly encouraged to line the funeral procession route to show support   Officer Chris Oberheim, #703, end of watch May 19, 2021, will be laid to rest Wednesday, May 26, 2021, following a funeral service at the Maranatha Assembly of God Church. The funeral service is open to family, friends, invited guests, […]


Shooting Investigation – 700 block of Crescent Drive

On May 23, 2021, at approximately 7:06 p.m., Champaign Police responded to the 700 block of Crescent Drive for the report of shots fired. Upon arriving to the scene, officers learned a 23-year-old male arrived at a local hospital by personal transport with a non-life-threatening gunshot wound. Champaign Police are currently interviewing witnesses and canvassing […]


Memorial Services for Officer Chris Oberheim Announced

The Champaign Police Department continues to mourn the loss of Officer Chris Oberheim, who was fatally wounded in the line of duty on May 19, 2021. Details for his visitation and funeral services have been confirmed by the family. Visitation will be Tuesday, May 25, 2021 from 1-7 p.m. at the Maranatha Assembly of God, […]


Shooting Investigation – 1200 block of Hedge Road

On May 21, 2021, at approximately 9:50 p.m., Champaign Police responded to the 1200 block of Hedge Road for the report of a shooting. Upon arrival, officers learned a 28-year-old male arrived at a local hospital by personal transport with a non-life-threatening gunshot wound. The preliminary investigation indicates the victim was struck by a stray […]


Officer Jeffrey Creel Recovering from Injuries Sustained in the Line of Duty

The Champaign Police Department is providing the name of the second officer who responded to the domestic disturbance call for service on May 19 in the 2400 block of North Neil Street. Officer Jeffrey Creel has been released from the hospital and is recovering. Shortly after arriving on scene, Officer Creel was shot three times […]


City Staff Attends “Put The Guns Down” Peace Rally

On Thursday, May 20, HV Neighborhood Transformation hosted a “Put the Guns Down” peace rally in Hessel Park. City Manager Dorothy Ann David, Deputy City Managers Joan Walls and Matt Roeschley, Community Relations Manager Tracy Parsons, and Community Relations Specialist Mary Catherine Roberson were in attendance. In addition City of Champaign Council Members Alicia Beck, […]