John Lyons, a 24-year-old from Westchester, Illinois, fatally shot three people on December 18 before being killed in a gunfight with police. Records show Lyons was struggling with mental health issues and mounting legal troubles before his crime spree.
Lyons initially targeted Caleb Mason, a former roommate he had sued over an alleged beating in June 2022. Mason, his mother Janice, and sister Sara were killed at their home in Mahomet. Hours later, Lyons showed up armed at the Berwyn residence of far-right activist Nick Fuentes, though his motive for targeting Fuentes remains unclear.
Lyons was scheduled to appear in court the day after the shootings for a hit-and-run case in Proviso Township. According to police reports, Lyons’ parents said he became depressed and withdrawn after the 2022 altercation with Mason. They also noted his growing frustration with law enforcement regarding the hit-and-run investigation.
The night of the shootings, Lyons misled his parents about his whereabouts and drove to central Illinois. Around 11:25 p.m., just before arriving at Fuentes’ home, he told his parents he would return soon but stopped responding.
Earlier that day, Lyons visited the Mason home and asked to speak with Caleb Mason, identifying himself only as “Jack.” When Caleb wasn’t home, Lyons returned later, encountering Janice Mason. Reports suggest there was tension between the family and Lyons due to the lawsuit.
Sara Mason posted on social media about Lyons’ unsettling behavior, mentioning that he was waiting outside the house while wearing a motorcycle helmet. Tragically, Lyons shot and killed the three family members later that evening.
Two hours after the shootings, Lyons appeared at Fuentes’ Berwyn apartment. Surveillance footage shows Lyons armed with a handgun and crossbow. Fuentes, known for his controversial far-right views, shared the footage online, claiming Lyons attempted to attack him.
Fuentes’ address had been leaked online following a controversial post he made. The disclosure reportedly led to harassment and confrontations at his home, including an incident where Fuentes allegedly pepper-sprayed a visitor.
Lyons’ actions and eventual death highlight a tragic descent fueled by personal struggles, legal pressure, and unresolved conflicts. Authorities continue to investigate the motives behind the crime spree, particularly Lyons’ connection to Fuentes.
