No charges for Princeton cop in DePue shooting that killed child – Shaw Local
An aerial view of the home where the shooting took place in the Hummingbird Lane Mobile Home Park on Monday, May 11, 2026 in DePue. Law enforcement agencies are investigating the scene of a fatal domestic disturbance in the 2700 block of East Street west of DePue. According to the Bureau County Sheriff’s Office, officers responded to a barricaded subject at a mobile home in the Hummingbird Lane Mobile Home Park. A 3-year-old later died at a local hospital, while the suspect remained hospitalized Monday afternoon. (Scott Anderson)
The police officer involved in the Mother’s Day shooting in rural DePue – a 3-year-old was struck and killed by gunfire – will not face criminal charges, Bureau County’s state’s attorney confirmed Wednesday.
Dan Anderson said he was contacted by the appellate prosecutor’s office, which was tabbed to investigate the May 10 shooting that resulted in the death of Damian Camacho. While the report was not disclosed in its entirety, Anderson did confirm the key finding.
“I have been informed that the decision of the special prosecutor is that no charges will be filed against the officer involved in the shooting,” Anderson said.
Illinois State Police issued a press release late Wednesday that included body camera footage from two officers present.
The press release did not, however, contain a determination on whether the officers acted within the scope of their duties. Shaw Local News Network staff concluded the graphic footage was not suitable for broadcast on any news platform.
That editorial review further showed that police did give repeat instructions for Anthony Rodriguez to release a woman and two children before police broke down a bedroom door and discharged shots. The video further corroborates reports and in-court statements that Rodriguez refused to release the injured child for medical care.
Rodriguez, 42, of Princeton, faces up to five years in prison if convicted of aggravated unlawful restraint. He is charged with misdemeanor assault and domestic battery.
He initially was set for trial in August, but Public Defender Eric May sought a continuance – and Rodriguez voluntarily waived his right to a speedy trial – to pursue pre-trial matters, including a mental health evaluation for Rodriguez.
Tom Collins covers criminal justice in La Salle County.