Effingham, IL-(Effingham Radio)- On Tuesday, May 20, 2025, at approximately 10:03 p.m., the Effingham Police Department responded to reports of a male subject damaging property at Land of Lincoln Credit Union, located at 1302 Thelma Keller Boulevard. While enroute, dispatchers advised that the suspect had also forcibly entered Al’s Tire Mart at 1304 Thelma Keller Boulevard after breaking its glass door.
Officers arrived on the scene within one minute of the call and observed the suspect fleeing on foot from Al’s Tire Mart. The individual, later identified as Patrick D. Galyen, 38, of Fredericksburg, Virginia, was taken into custody following a brief foot pursuit.
Subsequent investigation revealed damage to the Land of the Lincoln Credit Union, which included their ATM. The investigation also linked Galyen to a vehicle fire that occurred in the Walmart parking lot at 1204 Avenue of Mid-America around the same time. Stolen property from Al’s Tire Mart was recovered after Galyen was taken into custody. While the total amount of the damages is still being assessed, they are anticipated to be substantial.
Galyen was transported to the Effingham County Jail and booked on the following charges:
- Arson – Class 2 Felony
- Burglary – Class 2 Felony
- Criminal Damage to Property
- Resisting/Obstructing a Peace Officer
Galyen is currently being held without bond as the Effingham County State’s Attorney reviews the charges. Galyen’s initial court appearance, to determine eligibility for continued detention under the Pre-Trial Fairness Act, is scheduled for Thursday, May 22, 2025.
Lieutenant Detective Tom Webb stated, “We believe this was an isolated incident. The suspect’s actions appear to have been random, and the affected businesses were likely targeted based on location rather than any specific intent. The investigation remains active.”
The Effingham Police Department was assisted by the Effingham County Sheriff’s Office, Effingham Fire Department, and Effingham City and County Dispatch.
ALL INDIVIDUALS LISTED AS ARRESTED OR ISSUED A CITATION ARE INNOCENT UNTIL PROVEN GUILTY IN A COURT OF LAW
If you see it, say it! The Effingham Police Department encourages you to call the Police Department immediately at 217-347-0774 to report suspicious activity in your neighborhood or business district. Information can be given anonymously by calling the CRIME STOPPERS Tip Line at 217-347-6583. Anonymous callers can receive up to $1,000 cash rewards.
Comments