Orland Park, Illinois – More than six years after a fatal shooting at Orland Square mall in Orland Park, a recent court filing reveals that the accused, Jakharr Williams, plans to argue self-defense in the case. Williams faces charges of murder, attempted first-degree murder, and aggravated battery for the January 21, 2019 incident that resulted in the death of 18-year-old Javon Britten and left shoppers in emergency mode.
Britten, a senior at Rich Central High School in Olympia Fields, tragically lost his life in the shooting, sparking chaos and fear among mall-goers. Williams, a former acquaintance of Britten who graduated from the same high school in 2017, was apprehended two days after the shooting following an intense manhunt and has been incarcerated at Cook County Jail ever since.
According to Williams’ attorney, David Drwencke, the defense plans to present evidence of the victim’s prior felony convictions, including reckless discharge of a firearm, as well as allegations of long-standing bullying and harassment by Britten towards Williams. During a recent court appearance, the defense requested more time to expand on these motions, hinting at a potential trial date in the near future.
Prosecutors detailed the events leading up to the shooting, explaining how Williams confronted Britten and his companions inside the mall before opening fire, leading to a tragic outcome that sent shoppers seeking refuge and safety in stores. Despite the passage of several years since the incident, the case has yet to reach the trial phase, with the reasons for the delay unclear as authorities remain tight-lipped on the matter.
Britten’s family, still mourning the loss of their loved one, described him as a vibrant young man with aspirations of pursuing a career as an electrician. Meanwhile, Williams, who was 20 years old at the time of the shooting and now 26, has a history of prior felony convictions, including robbery and aggravated unlawful use of a weapon.
As the legal proceedings continue to unfold, questions linger surrounding the events of that fateful day at Orland Square mall, with both sides preparing to present their cases in the pursuit of justice and closure for those impacted by the tragedy.