Peoria Resident Sentenced for 2025 Shooting
A judge sentenced 20-year-old Deziaah Hunter to 53 years in prison for the killing of Kenadee Wallenfang.
Updated on Sept. 23, 2026 in Violence
Deziaah Hunter, 20, received a 53-year prison sentence following a conviction for the 2025 shooting death of 18-year-old Kenadee Wallenfang. The incident occurred on the Peoria Riverfront.
Why it matters
The sentencing concludes a legal process that began after a jury found Hunter guilty in April 2026. During the proceedings, Hunter testified that the fatal shooting of Wallenfang was an accident.
Judge Katherine Gorman issued the 53-year sentence after a jury found the 20-year-old defendant guilty of the shooting. The legal proceedings concluded in Peoria following the June 2025 incident.
The players
Deziaah Hunter
He is the 20-year-old defendant convicted and sentenced for the killing of Kenadee Wallenfang.
Kenadee Wallenfang
She was the 18-year-old victim who died after being shot on the Peoria Riverfront.
Katherine Gorman
She is the judge who presided over the case and delivered the 53-year prison sentence.
The details
Kenadee Wallenfang was 18 years old when she was shot in the back of the head while sitting inside an SUV on the Peoria Riverfront. The defendant claimed during his trial that the shooting was accidental.
Timeline
June 3, 2025: Kenadee Wallenfang was killed on the Peoria Riverfront.
April 2026: A jury returned a guilty verdict for Deziaah Hunter.
September 23, 2026: Deziaah Hunter was sentenced to 53 years in prison.
Legal Context
The sentence is consistent with the standard application of the Illinois sentencing guidelines for first-degree murder. This case follows established legal patterns for prosecuting violent crimes involving firearms within the state judicial system.
The resolution of this case provides closure for a high-profile incident that took place in a public area of the city. Residents are reminded that local security remains a priority for city officials following the incident on the riverfront.
The takeaway
This case highlights the serious legal consequences resulting from firearm-related violence in public spaces. Understanding the outcomes of such trials is essential for citizens following the safety of their local community.
Further reading
For more information on local judicial proceedings, visit the Violence section.
