John Conway, a concealed carry holder, was charged with the murder of Alexander Nesteruk in Lincoln Park last week. Prosecutors revealed that Conway had a collection of firearms in his condo, including a “sniper-like rifle,” and a detailed plan to harm an unrelated individual at a specific event.
According to prosecutors, Nesteruk was behaving erratically in the neighborhood, which led to a confrontation with Conway on the street. Surveillance footage showed Nesteruk making an aggressive move towards Conway, who then drew a gun from his pocket and shot Nesteruk in the chest. Nesteruk stumbled away and later died from his injuries.
After the shooting, Conway was captured on video walking away calmly as emergency vehicles arrived at the scene. He later went to a nearby gym before surrendering to police. Investigators were able to identify Conway as the suspect through tips from the community and surveillance images.
A search of Conway’s home uncovered a revolver matching the one used in the shooting, along with three additional handguns, a sniper rifle with a scope and bi-pod stand, and ammunition for an AR-15. Police also found ballistic armor, night vision equipment, and a phone jammer. Disturbingly, they discovered a map of Illinois with colleges circled, derogatory language, and a detailed plan to kill an unnamed person at an event, complete with escape routes.
The findings in Conway’s condo raised concerns about his risk to the public, leading to his detention pending trial. The case has shocked the community and highlighted the dangers of gun violence and individuals with access to a cache of firearms and harmful intentions.
