The death of Cortez White followed a tragic chain of events in Peoria, Illinois, that resulted in the deaths of White and Ashley Stenson after a confrontation outside a downtown hotel in May 2026.

According to Peoria County State’s Attorney Jodi Hoos, the incident began after White allegedly fatally shot his former girlfriend, Ashley Stenson, before turning his firearm toward a responding Peoria police officer. The officer then fired, striking White and ending the immediate threat.

Authorities said the events began on May 8, when Stenson, who was visiting from Atlanta ahead of a wedding, arrived at Peoria Airport. Investigators reported that White, who was living in St. Louis at the time, unexpectedly appeared and left the airport with her.

During the drive, Stenson reportedly communicated with family members and expressed fear for her safety. Her relatives contacted emergency services and provided information about the individuals involved and the vehicle they were traveling in.

Stenson continued sharing location updates with her family, eventually identifying the Four Points by Sheraton in downtown Peoria. Officers responded to the area and encountered Stenson and White outside the hotel.

According to the State’s Attorney’s Office, the responding officer identified himself and instructed both individuals to keep their hands visible. Officials said White then allegedly pulled out a firearm and shot Stenson before continuing to fire after she fell.

The officer reportedly responded by using deadly force after White allegedly directed the firearm toward him. White was struck by multiple rounds and later died from his injuries.

Cause of Death and Official Review

Cortez White’s death was determined to have resulted from gunshot wounds sustained during the officer-involved shooting. Authorities said the officer’s actions were reviewed by the Peoria County State’s Attorney’s Office, which concluded that the use of deadly force was legally justified.

Officials stated that the officer had witnessed a fatal shooting and was faced with an armed individual who represented an immediate danger to both the officer and members of the public in the area.

The investigation into the incident highlighted the risks faced by law enforcement officers responding to armed confrontations, particularly when events unfold quickly and involve an ongoing threat.

Remembering the Victims

The incident left two families and a community grieving. Ashley Stenson’s loved ones continue to mourn her death and remember her life beyond the circumstances that led to the tragedy.

Cortez White’s death came during the confrontation with police, following the events that authorities said led to Stenson’s fatal shooting. The case also renewed attention on the devastating impact of domestic violence and the importance of recognizing warning signs and seeking help in dangerous situations.

As the legal review has concluded, those affected by the incident continue to process the loss and the lasting impact of what occurred.

Disclaimer: The information on this website is for general information purposes only and not all information is accurate. Details regarding Cortez White’s death, the officer-involved shooting, the investigation, legal findings, and related events should be confirmed through official statements from law enforcement, government agencies, or court records. Information may change as additional verified details become available.