Man accused in Dunlap shooting death charged with attempted murder, battery



26-year-old Walter J. Artis, Jr. was charged with attempted first-degree murder, home invasion and two counts of aggravated battery with a firearm, according to a release from Peoria County State’s Attorney Jodi Hoos.

At around 9 a.m. Friday, deputies responded to 12300 N. Brentfield Drive on a report of a woman shot.

They found Alexis Boland with multiple gunshot wounds lying on the floor of her apartment. Hoos says a neighbor was performing CPR and trying to save her by holding pressure over her wounds.

Boland was declared brain-dead Sunday, according to county coroner Jamie Harwood. She was registered as an organ donor. Her autopsy will follow organ procurement.

Hoos says that according to a witness, Artis, Jr. forced his way into the apartment and pulled out a handgun, firing multiple shots at Boland striking her in the head and torso - then fleeing the scene in his vehicle.
Peoria County Sheriff Chris Watkins said Artis, Jr. and Boland had children in common.

Artis, Jr. is currently in the Peoria County Jail on a $2.5 million bond.
https://www.25newsnow.com/2023/04/17...urder-battery/