Crete Township Shooting Turns Fatal: Angel Torres-Lopez, 23, Identified as Victim in Shocking Gunfire Incident
A peaceful evening was shattered by violence in Crete Township, Illinois, as authorities confirm the death of 23-year-old Angel Torres-Lopez, a resident of Lowell, Indiana, in a brazen shooting that also critically injured a pregnant woman. The heartbreaking incident unfolded late on the night of September 2, when Will County deputies responded to a disturbing scene on the 2300 block of East Exchange Street.
When deputies arrived, they found a black sedan riddled with bullet holes and shattered windows, with two gunshot victims inside. A shocking 40 shell casings were scattered around the vehicle, pointing to what law enforcement describes as an intense and targeted shooting.
Torres-Lopez, the passenger, sustained multiple gunshot wounds and was rushed to Franciscan Health Dyer, where he tragically succumbed to his injuries on September 3, according to the Lake County Indiana Coroner’s Office. His death has sent waves of grief through his family, friends, and the Lowell community.
Angel Torres-Lopez: A Life Cut Short in the Prime of Youth
At just 23 years old, Angel Torres-Lopez had his entire life ahead of him. Friends and family say he was kind-hearted, hard-working, and deeply loved by those who knew him. Known for his loyalty and love for family, Angel’s loss is not just a statistic in a crime report — it’s a deeply felt wound in the hearts of everyone who knew him.
He was sitting in the passenger seat during what should’ve been an ordinary night, unaware it would be his last. The driver, a 25-year-old pregnant woman, also suffered gunshot wounds to the head and hand but miraculously survived and is now in critical but stable condition.
Angel’s family is now left grappling with unanswerable questions, unimaginable grief, and the painful task of preparing for a funeral no one ever saw coming. Vigils are already being organized in both Lowell and surrounding areas to honor his memory and call for justice in the wake of this senseless violence.
Investigation Ongoing – Authorities Say No Further Threat to Public
The Will County Sheriff’s Office believes the attack was an isolated incident, suggesting that there is no ongoing threat to the general public. However, details about the motive, suspects, or any potential leads remain scarce, with detectives working diligently to piece together what happened and who may be responsible.
The number of shell casings found at the scene paints a chilling picture — a deliberate and violent ambush. The fact that a pregnant woman was also targeted has only intensified calls for answers and accountability. At this time, no arrests have been made.
Anyone with information is urged to contact the Will County Sheriff’s Office as the community unites to demand justice for Angel and support for the survivor.
Rest in peace, Angel Torres-Lopez.
Gone far too soon, your memory will live on in the hearts of those you loved and who loved you back. May justice be swift, and may your family find strength in your legacy.