PEORIA, Ill. – The Peoria man who turned himself in over the weekend for a fatal Thanksgiving Day shooting has appeared in court.
Peoria County Circuit Court records indicate Martarius McGee, 24, appeared Monday morning on a charge of Possession of a Weapon by a Felon, but prosecutors say more charges are expected.
The Journal Star reports McGee told police the Thursday morning shooting in the East Bluff neighborhood — claiming the life of Matthew Smith, 18 — happened in self defense, because he thought someone shot at one of his friends.
McGee also reportedly wanted a low bond because he has a heart problem and was waiting for a transplant.
A judge set bond at $150,000, and a preliminary hearing was scheduled for December 22nd.
