Man Shot While Walking on Street in Rockford, Felon Arrested

An arrest has been made in connection with an April 2025 shooting that injured a Rockford man who was walking down the street.

Gunfire Erupts in Quiet Neighborhood

It was an early Saturday morning, April 12, 2025, when officers were dispatched for reports of shots fired in the 1300 block of North Winnebago Street around 8:20 am.

When Rockford Police arrived on the scene, they were able to find the victim, who was a few blocks away in the 1100 block of N. Rockton Avenue, suffering from a gunshot wound. He was transported to a local hospital for non-life-threatening injuries.

READ MORE: Illinois Governor Opens Year-Round Indoor Horse Riding Arena

According to the report from Rockford PD, the 25-year-old man was walking on North Winnebago Street when he was struck in the hand by gunfire.

An unrelated vehicle and a nearby garage were also hit by bullets, according to RPD.

Suspect Identified and Arrested

After Rockford Police Violent Crime Detectives completed their investigation, 26-year-old Montrese Harris of Rockford was identified as the suspect in the shooting.

Get our free mobile app

After reviewing the details of the case, the Winnebago County State's Attorney's Office authorized multiple felony charges. Earlier today (Tuesday, 5/20), Harris was taken into custody and booked into the Winnebago County Jail.

Montrese Harris, 26 of Rockford, is facing these charges:

• Aggravated Battery (Discharged Firearm)
• Unlawful Possession of a Firearm by a Felon
• Aggravated Discharge of a Firearm
• Possession of a Firearm Without a Valid FOID

Ongoing Investigation and Public Assistance

Rockford Police are asking anyone who has information about the incident to call 815-966-2900, or an anonymous tip can be called into Rockford Area Crimestoppers at 815-963-7867.

All suspects are innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.