MINOOKA, Ill. — A troubling incident has shaken the Minooka community after a young man was severely injured during what appears to have been a late-night prank gone wrong. The victim’s stepmother, Amy Reilly, took to social media to share the alarming details, stating that her stepson is currently hospitalized at Loyola Medical Center following an assault that occurred early last Saturday in the Ninovan Lake Estates subdivision.
In her online post, Reilly highlighted that the community has rallied to increase the reward for information to $3,000. She expressed her gratitude for the overwhelming support, stating, “Wow, we never expected this. I just wanted to get the word out. Thank you so much.”
Reilly shared alarming images of her stepson, who was visibly injured in a hospital bed, showcasing the aftermath of the brutal attack. “It breaks my heart that I have to write this post, but we are pleading for anyone’s help,” she wrote, describing the victim as an “amazing young man” who has always been kind-hearted.
The incident coincided with Minooka High School’s annual homecoming festivities, adding to the community’s sense of unease. According to Reilly, the attack took place shortly after midnight when a group of about eight individuals clad in black and wearing ski masks targeted homes for toilet-papering.
Reilly urged residents in the area to check their Ring cameras for any footage that could assist in identifying those responsible. After being punched from behind, her stepson underwent a six-hour surgery on his face and is now recuperating at a trauma center in Maywood.
Doctors estimate that his recovery will span three months, impacting his freshman year at Illinois State University. “Our hearts are so broken for him,” Reilly lamented, emphasizing the urgent need to apprehend the assailants. “The person that did this has to be caught,” she reiterated.
Local law enforcement has confirmed they are investigating the incident, seeking leads from the public. Reilly’s heartfelt appeal has sparked conversations across social media platforms, as community members express their shock and support for the victim and his family during this difficult time.