BELLEVILLE, Ill. – The Major Case of Squad of Greater St. Louis was activated Sunday to investigate a homicide that occurred in Belleville.

According to Master Sgt. Shane Brown, deputy commander of the Major Case Squad, Belleville police were called to a home in the 400 block of South 29th Street just after 1:20 a.m.

Officers found a man inside the residence dead of a gunshot wound. The victim was later identified as Paul Kirby. He was 38.

A family member who does not wish to be identified said Kirby’s life ended too soon. He said Kirby enjoyed hunting, fishing, and spending time with family and friends. 

He was a loving father, son, brother and uncle, according to family. His son was his pride and joy. The family said they’re heartbroken that his son has to grow up without his father. 

The Major Case Squad said they are following multiple leads at this time.

More than two dozen Major Case Squad investigators are working on the case, Brown said.

Anyone with information on the investigation is asked to contact the Major Case Squad at 618-355-9793 or call CrimeStoppers at 866-371-TIPS.