Illinois State Police release graphic body cam footage from two officers at the scene of a deadly hostage incident that left a child dead

Illinois State Police have released video from a deadly hostage situation in DePue on Mother’s Day. Authorities say Bureau County deputies and Princeton police responded just before 3 AM on May 10th to a domestic disturbance near 2770 East Road and 1260 North Road. Investigators say 42-year-old Anthony Daniel Rodriguez was armed with a knife and holding several people hostage, including minors. After negotiations and less-lethal efforts failed, an officer fired two shots. Rodriguez and a minor were hit; the child later died at a hospital. Rodriguez is being held in the LaSalle County Jail on multiple charges.

According to court documents, the defense filed motions to suppress, change of venue, and to appoint a special prosecutor on July 7, 2026. A status hearing is scheduled for August 3rd, and a jury trial is scheduled for October 5th.

Authorities say the police officer involved in a Mother’s Day shooting in rural DePue, where 3-year-old Damian Camacho was struck and killed by gunfire, will not face criminal charges. Bureau County State’s Attorney Dan Anderson says he was contacted by the appellate prosecutor’s office, which investigated the May 10th incident. While the full report has not been released, Anderson confirmed no prosecution will move forward. State police issued a release Wednesday, but it did not indicate whether the shooting was justified. Damian’s family says he was a joyful, loving child, and they are raising funds on “GoFundMe” to help cover funeral expenses.

ISP says the family was offered a chance to review the video before public release. WARNING: The body cam footage is very graphic and will be disturbing to most viewers. Viewer discretion is strongly advised. You can view body-cam footage from two officers at the scene on the Illinois State Police website.

Anthony Rodriguez is charged with three (3) counts of Aggravated Unlawful Restraint (Class 3 Felony), Aggravated Assault with a Deadly Weapon (Class A Misdemeanor), and two (2) counts of Domestic Battery/Physical Contact (Class A Misdemeanor).