On May 8, 2026, 26‑year‑old Ash Nicole of Peoria, Illinois, was fatally shot outside the Four Points by Sheraton hotel on Hamilton Boulevard during a confrontation that escalated into gunfire. Police confirmed that both Nicole and the male suspect later died, and the Illinois State Police are leading the officer‑involved shooting investigation.
The incident began around 6:45 p.m. near the intersection of Hamilton and Madison Streets, close to the Four Points hotel and the federal courthouse in downtown Peoria. Officers initially responded to a domestic dispute in the area. When they arrived, they found Nicole shot outside the hotel. Emergency responders attempted lifesaving measures, but she was pronounced dead at the scene.
Police said the suspected gunman fired at Nicole before encountering officers nearby. An exchange of gunfire followed, during which the suspect was struck. He was transported to a hospital in critical condition but later died. No officers were injured in the confrontation.
The Peoria County Coroner’s Office confirmed that both Nicole and the male suspect were deceased. Their official causes of death will be determined following autopsies. Authorities have not yet released the suspect’s identity publicly. The Illinois State Police are overseeing the investigation into the officer‑involved portion, as required by state law, and will present findings to the Peoria County State’s Attorney.
Reports from SpotCrime indicated that the shooting occurred specifically at Hamilton Boulevard and Monroe Avenue at approximately 7:48 p.m., with two victims shot outside the hotel. CPR was performed on one victim at the scene before medical personnel arrived.
The sudden and violent nature of Nicole’s death has left the Peoria community in shock. Friends and family described her as a bright, loving young woman whose life was cut short in a senseless act of violence. As the investigation continues, authorities are urging witnesses or anyone with video footage from the area to come forward to assist in piecing together the events of that evening.