Guilty Verdict in 2023 Homicide Case

Published on September 25, 2026

On September 25, 2026, a jury convicted John Powell Jr, 44, of second-degree murder in the 2023 shooting death of Tyquincy Tymain McFerrin, 42. 

Powell was also convicted of:

• Three counts of felony firearm.
• Felon in possession of a weapon.
• Discharging a weapon at a building causing death.

He is scheduled to be sentenced on October 19, 2026, by Honorable Judge Christine A. Morse. 

McFerrin was shot and killed on May 18, 2023, in the 1400 block of Fox Ridge Drive following a verbal argument with Powell. During the argument, Powell fired a shot through an apartment door striking McFerrin, who was on the other side. Despite life-saving efforts, McFerrin died as a result of his injuries. Powell was taken into custody several months after the homicide in Lake County, Illinois. 

“Today’s guilty verdict is the result of a long and difficult process, one that came with its share of challenges along the way. Our detectives and prosecutors remained committed to seeing this case through, and we are grateful that their efforts ultimately led to accountability,” said Captain Danielle Guilds of the Criminal Investigations Division. “Most importantly, we hope this verdict brings some measure of closure to Tyquincy’s family, who have waited a long time for this day.”

Figure 1 - John Powell Jr