Macoupin State's Attorney Jordan Garrison announced today a former Carlinville man has pled guilty to first the degree murder of Dana Morgan, Jr. Shawn M. Evans (11/7/1986) entered his plea in front of Judge Joshua A. Meyer. Evans is being held at the Macoupin County Jail where he has been since his arrest on July 13, 2023. 

On July 12, 2023, Carlinville officers responded to the 1000th block of Johnson Street for a report of shots fired. Officers determined Dana Morgan, Jr. had been shot in the chest and arm. Morgan was treated for his wound but eventually died from the injuries. Multiple witnesses identified Evans as the shooter. Video show Evans walking toward the location and running from the scene after shots were fired. A manhunt was conducted for a little under 24hours where eventually multiple law enforcement agencies took Evans into custody without incident. 

"In a cowardly act of violence Dana Morgan, Jr. was senselessly killed.” Garrison said. “Evan's admission today is one step further on the path of healing. I offer my condolences to his family and friends on their loss. I want to thank the Carlinville Police Department, Macoupin County Sheriff's Office, the Illinois Secretary of State Police and the Illinois State Police for their efforts in this matter especially Lt. Brian Lawton of the Carlinville Police Department who has been a mainstay in seeking justice for victims for over 20 years." 

First Degree Murder carries a sentence of 20-60 years in prison. A sentencing hearing is scheduled for November 23, 2026. If sentenced to the maximum sentence being requested by the State, Evans, who is 39 years old, would not be eligible for parole until July of 2063. 

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