3 charged in 'sickening' killing of South Holland teen, police say victim was mistaken for target

Three arrested in murder of 16-year-old boy in South Holland

Three arrests were made today linked to the murder of a 16-year-old boy in south holland.

SOUTH HOLLAND, Ill. - Three people have been taken into custody in connection with the August shooting death of a 16-year-old boy in South Holland.

What we know:

Davell Holden was killed Aug. 2 in the 160 block of Drexel Avenue. Police said the investigation required thousands of work hours and involved multiple law enforcement agencies.

Javan Moore, 21, and Demon Smith, 20, have been charged by the Cook County State’s Attorney’s Office. Moore was charged with first-degree murder and is accused of being the shooter. Smith and a 16-year-old juvenile, whose name was not released because of his age, were charged with felony murder. Authorities said all three suspects live in Phoenix.

Demon Smith (left) and Javan Moore | South Holland police

Investigators said the killing stemmed from a case of mistaken identity. Holden was visiting his girlfriend, who lived on the same street as the intended target had previously lived, and police said the teen closely resembled that person.

What they're saying:

"This was a tragic and sickening incident. While we are grateful to have made the arrests, we are deeply saddened for Davell’s family and friends," South Holland Mayor Don De Graff said in a statement. "No family should ever experience this kind of loss, and our community stands with them during this difficult time."

Officials credited the South Suburban Major Crimes Task Force, Illinois State Police, South Holland detectives and other south suburban departments for their work on the case, as well as the Cook County State’s Attorney’s Office. 

A press conference is scheduled for Monday at 11 a.m. at South Holland Village Hall. It will be streamed live in the media player at the top of this story.