Fund Started for Wounded Jerseyville Officer

JERSEYVILLE - Jerseyville Police Chief Brad Blackorby issued a thank you to the Jerseyville community and the area on Wednesday for reaching out to officer Nathan Miller, his family and the police with support. Miller was shot and seriously injured in a burglary chase early Tuesday morning in Jerseyville.

“This is a tragic incident and our heart goes out to all the family members,” he said. “Officers from the Jerseyville Police Department not only work in Jerseyville, but live here as well. The community support has been tremendous and we appreciate every business and citizen who has reached out.”

Blackorby said the Illinois State Police continues to investigate the incident where Miller was shot.

Officers from the Jerseyville Police Department responded to a burglary alarm at 1:10 a.m. at DJ's Pub and Grill. When police arrived they became involved in a pursuit of suspect Austin Durham. Authorities say as Durham fled the scene he starting firing rounds at the police when he was near the Jerseyville Tobacco Shop. A knowledgeable source stated that the gun used by Durham was an airweight hammerless .38 special revolver. Police have as of yet not officially identified the weapon but it is believed that the authorities are currently tracing via serial number the history of the gun. Officer Miller is said to have been struck several times by Durham's gunfire and that he was likely saved by his ballistic vest. Officers returned fire with Durham eventually dying of gunshot wounds at Jersey Community Hospital. Miller is still in the ICU at a St. Louis Hospital. 

An emergency fund has been set up for the officer by the Illinois Police Benevolent & Protective Association (PBPA).

Donations can be sent to:

City of Jerseyville Police Benevolent Fund, Jerseyville Banking Center, P.O. Box 249,Jerseyville, IL., 62052