Tragic Incident: The Life and Death of John Wesley Allen

A tragic incident involving a 78-year-old man and a teenager in a clown costume unfolded in East St. Louis. John Wesley Allen crossed paths with a knife-wielding teenager on one of his unscheduled visits to his older sister.

On Monday night, Allen was found dead in what authorities called a random attack. Illinois state police reported that the suspect wore a clown outfit. This occurred near a bus stop frequently used by Allen to visit his sister, Delores Fowler.

Fowler, 82, described her brother’s visits, saying, “He’d never make an appointment. He’d just call and ask if I’m home.” They maintained this routine for his surprise visits, often arranging to meet at the MetroLink station or nearby bus stop.

Allen, a retired bus driver, loved commuting. Despite concerns from family about his travels, he cherished being active in the community. He drove for Metro Transit from 1977 until his retirement in 1994. Fowler recalled, “He was a very friendly person who loved talking to everyone.”

Allen lived in a retirement community in St. Louis as a widower. His wife, Yvonne Allen, passed away in 2019 at the age of 65.

A 15-year-old boy now faces charges related to Allen’s death. Police indicated no prior connection between Allen and the suspect. Family members, including his niece Tania Stanford, expressed their unease about his unannounced visits but acknowledged his love for being with his sister. Stanford described him as “a joyful person,” noting his willingness to help others.

Allen’s family learned of his death through local media. Fowler initially dismissed the news, believing it referenced someone else because of a partial name match. Friends alerted her before she confirmed through news coverage.

East St. Louis police have deferred inquiries to state authorities, who are handling the investigation. The Illinois State Police have yet to provide public comments, and it remains uncertain whether the suspect has legal representation.

Fowler expressed a strong desire for justice, stating, “We want him tried as an adult.”