EDWARDSVILLE — The Major Case Squad of Greater St. Louis is investigating the apparent homicide Saturday night of Edwardsville attorney Randy Gori.

Authorities had a person of interest in custody Sunday afternoon.

According to Madison County Sheriff’s Office Detective Capt. David Vucich, deputies were called to 4586 Mooney Creek Road in rural Edwardsville around 8:56 p.m. Saturday.

Upon arrival, officers found Gori, 47, who lives at the residence, dead at the scene.

An Illinois State Police Emergency Radio Network (ISPERN) broadcast reported the apparent incident, and that officers should be on the lookout for a black Rolls Royce with temporary Missouri tags. Previous reports indicated a specific Illinois tag, but investigators amended that detail Sunday morning.

Vucich elaborated that the vehicle is a 2020 Rolls Royce SUV Cullinan, which was taken from the residence following the homicide.

The vehicle in question was located around 12:30 p.m. and at least one individual was taken into custody. The ISPERN alert was then cancelled. It was unclear where the vehicle was located or the identity of who had been arrested.

Photo: Tyler Pletsch | The Intelligencer

“Over 25 investigators from different agencies are participating in the investigation and currently investigating numerous leads,” a statement from Vucich early Sunday morning said. “At this time, we are not releasing any further information about the victim, the case, or any evidence. Additional information will be made available in the near future. We are seeking the public’s help on locating the above mentioned vehicle or any additional information. The public is encouraged to contact the Major Case Squad with any additional information at 618-296-5544.”

A possible suspect was described over police radio traffic as a tall male wearing a green mask. Police said he was armed with a knife.

Sources, through second-hand information, told a Hearst Illinois Newspapers reporter that subjects in the home had been tied up, and a female there had suffered injuries, in addition to the reported homicide. Those details could not be officially confirmed overnight.

A single police officer had Mooney Creek Lane blocked at Old Route 66 following the reports. He declined to offer any information.

Edwardsville Mayor Hal Patton issued an extended statement about Gori Sunday afternoon.

“We are struggling to get our heads around this sickening and senseless murder,” he said. “Our hearts go out to Randy’s family and to his loved ones. I knew Randy as a friend and a tireless businessman. He was heavily involved in our Downtown Edwardsville Revitalization, but more importantly, his investments were secondary to his philanthropy.”

Gori and his family recently donated $2.5 million to the city for its proposed ice rink and teen center, which includes naming rights.

“Randy and his firm gave generously of their time and resources to causes for which Randy was passionate,” Patton continued. “From a local family in need to causes fighting cancer, Randy would always step up because he truly cared about others.

“The city of Edwardsville will offer any and all of our resources to the county and Major Case Squad in their efforts to apprehend the person or persons responsible for this despicable act.”

Randy Gori’s law firm, Gori Julian & Associated, P.C., also address the public on social media.

“It is with an incredibly heavy heart that we communicate the passing of our managing partner and co-founder, Randy Gori,” the post read. “Randy was a true leader, a wonderful attorney and friend and a champion of our community. He gave so much to everyone he knew both personally and professionally. We will continue the legacy that Randy created and ask the community to join with us in supporting his family during this difficult time.”

Third Judicial Court Chief Judge William A. Mudge in a statement released Sunday night describes Randy Gori as a wonderful father, lawyer and friend of the legal community.

“He approached everyone with a smile and was dedicated to the pursuit of justice for his clients,” Mudge said. “Randy’s generosity and support of this community was second to none. He will be missed here at the courthouse.

“Our collective heart goes out to Randy Gori’s family, law firm and friends.”

Edwardsville Intelligencer reporter Tyler Pletsch contributed to this report.