Family shares update following Pour Bros. shooting, alleged shooter arraigned
CHAMPAIGN, Ill. (WCIA) — The family of a man who was shot in broad daylight in downtown Champaign shared an update on his condition.
Brandon Hardway, the General Manager of Pour Bros., was shot in the back Thursday afternoon outside the bar during a smoke break. According to his wife, Hardway is still in critical condition at a hospital.
‘It’s disheartening’: Community reacts to Pour Bros shooting
“Brandon continues to be in critical condition with serious injuries, but we are seeing small improvements that have us cautiously optimistic for what is to come,” a statement from his family reads. “We are taking it day by day, knowing that Brandon is strong and a fighter. It will be a long road to recovery, and we aren’t out of the woods yet. But with the continued support of friends, family, and the community, we know he will pull through.”
The family also shared more photos of Brandon with WCIA, including pictures from his November wedding.
The alleged shooter, 24-year-old Fidele Tshimanga, was arraigned Monday and is facing two charges, attempted first degree murder and aggravated battery with firearm. Both are class X felonies. If convicted for both charges, he could face up to 30 years in prison.
Prosecutors said there were both surveillance video and an eyewitness who placed Tshimanga at the scene of the crime.
“During the interview, he admitted to shooting Mr. Hardway and disposing the firearm,” Troy Lozar of the Champaign Co. State’s Attorney office, said. “The firearm was located in the area as well that matched the report of a firearm stolen recently. The defendant’s also checked and appears to have no legal right, no Illinois FOID card or other right to possess the firearm.”
The preliminary trial will start March 19.
Pour Bros. plans to reopen Monday evening.
The Hardway family is still accepting donations through GoFundMe to help in his recovery. As of Monday evening, they’ve received approximately $40,000 out of a $50,000 goal.
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