In March 2024, a Macomb, Illinois police officer fatally shot 4-year-old Terrell Miller and 57-year-old Anthony George, the man holding the child hostage with a knife to his throat, during a domestic violence incident. The officer was later cleared of any criminal wrongdoing, a decision that sparked public anger and a pending civil lawsuit from the boy’s family.
Incident Details
Date and Location: The incident occurred on the evening of March 16, 2024, at an apartment complex on North Charles Street in Macomb, Illinois.
Police Response: Officers were responding to a domestic violence call where they found a woman (Terrell’s mother) with multiple stab wounds. They confronted Anthony George, who was armed with two knives.
The Shooting: George ducked out of view and re-emerged holding 4-year-old Terrell Miller as a human shield, with a knife to the child’s throat and another around his waist. An officer, identified as Lt. Nick Goc, fired one shot, which struck both George and the child, killing them both at the scene. The entire confrontation from entry to the shot reportedly took only 16 seconds.
Victim: Terrell Miller was remembered by his family as a “sweet boy” who was a “ball of light” and loved Spider-Man.
Investigation and Aftermath
Investigations: The incident was investigated by the Illinois State Police, and the findings were turned over to a special prosecutor’s office (the Illinois State’s Attorneys Appellate Prosecutor’s Office) to avoid a conflict of interest.
Decision: In July 2024, the special prosecutor determined there was no basis for criminal charges against the officer, finding the use of deadly force was justified given the hostage situation.
Bodycam Footage: The Macomb Police Department released body camera footage of the incident following the decision not to pursue criminal charges.
Family Reaction and Lawsuit: Terrell’s mother, Keianna Miller, and her legal representation expressed dismay and anger over the lack of charges, arguing that non-lethal options (like Tasers or pepper spray) should have been used. The family is pursuing a civil rights lawsuit alleging excessive use of force to hold the Macomb Police Department accountable for the tragic death.
Officer Status: The officers involved were placed on administrative leave pending the results of internal investigations, a standard procedure.