Police ID man killed by cops during attempted machete attack

State police said Monday that Rodney G. Williams, 66, died following Saturday morning’s shooting at his apartment in the Stark County city of Toulon.

Preliminary findings indicate that officers from multiple agencies who are assigned to the Henry County Special Operations Squad were trying to serve an arrest/search warrant for Williams in Toulon when they encountered him inside his apartment, police said.

Williams reportedly tried to strike officers with a machete, prompting them to open fire, striking him. Williams was pronounced dead at a hospital.

No law enforcement officers were injured during Saturday’s incident in Toulon, which is located about 20 miles (32.2 kilometers) northwest of Peoria.

State police released no additional information about the shooting. The state agency is investigating the shooting and will submit its finding to the Stark County State’s Attorney once that work is complete.