Published on July 8, 2025 4:56 pm
Last Updated on July 9, 2025 6:47 am
The Shelby County prosecutor has decided against filing charges against a man who shot to death another man during an altercation in Cowden.
Shelby County State’s Attorney Ruth Woolery said that the subject, 54-year-old Chad Perry of Mattoon, was experiencing a mental health crisis at the time of the incident. The Shelby County Sheriff’s Office was called to the scene. While awaiting arrival of deputies, Perry returned to the home of Trent Buchanan of Cowden. It was the third time Perry went to Buchanan’s home. Woolery said Perry exited his vehicle in what was termed “an aggressive manner”. Buchanan, as he had the first two times, yelled at Perry to stop. When Perry continued to advance, Buchanan fired five gunshots, incapacitating him. Perry ultimately died from his wounds.
A statement from Woolery said it was “clear from witness statements that Mr. Perry was experiencing a ‘mental health crisis’ at the time.”
The 56-year-old Buchanan was booked for Involuntary Manslaughter at the time of the incident on May 7, but no formal charges were filed.
Woolery said upon review of the evidence, including reports from the sheriff’s office, ISP crime scene investigators, the medical examiner Dr. Scott Denton, and witness statements, the Shelby County State’s Attorney’s Office declined to pursue any charges.
Agencies involved in the investigation were the Cowden Police Department, Shelby County Sheriff’s Office, Shelby County Coroner’s Office, and the Illinois State Police.
