Crystal Lake man faces felony charges from BB gun shooting

A Crystal Lake man who police say used a BB gun to shoot an acquaintance in the groin is facing a painful experience of his own after McHenry County authorities this week filed a felony aggravated battery charge against him.

Tristan J. Casey, 21, could be sentenced to two to five years in prison if convicted of the charge stemming from a shooting during an early-morning party Sunday in Crystal Lake.

Crystal Lake Deputy Police Chief Dennis Harris said officers were called to Northern Illinois Medical Center in McHenry early Sunday to meet with a 22-year-old Crystal Lake man who had suffered an injury from a BB gun shooting.

The victim, Harris said, identified Casey as his shooter through a physical description and a nickname. When officers went to the party to question Casey, Harris said, he admitted he shot the man.

According to the criminal complaint against Casey, the BB pierced the victim's scrotum, causing great bodily harm.

Although police believe Casey intentionally targeted the victim, Harris said the shooting was not the result of any argument or conflict between the men, who he described as acquaintances, but not friends.

"It was a deliberate act, but whether he intended to do the harm resulted, that's not an element of what he's being charged with," he said. "It was not done in anger."

The victim underwent treatment at the hospital for his injury, but has since been released, Harris said.

The shooting was one of two at the party that night, police said. A 21-year-old man suffered a minor injury from a separate BB gun attack, Harris said. That incident remains under investigation.

Police believe alcohol probably played a part in both shootings.

"People sometimes do foolish things at social gatherings," Harris said.

Casey, who is free after posting $1,000 bond, is scheduled to appear in court Nov. 27.