‘Close proximity’ gunshots killed Pontiac father and his son, coroner says

Posted on June 11, 2025
The incident remains under investigation. (Photo courtesy: Getty Images)

PONTIAC Ill. (WMBD) — A Pontiac man and his son died last week after being shot at close range, the Livingston County Coroner said on Wednesday.

Coroner Mike Renner said Joseph Martin, 59, and Braden Martin, 25, were found inside a home in the 600 block of South Oak Street. Both, he said, were found with gunshot wounds.

Autopsy results indicated Joseph died from two gunshot wounds to the upper torso from “close proximity.” Braden died from one gunshot wound to the chest from “contact proximity,” the coroner said.

Officers with the Pontiac Police Department were called to the house at 3:21 p.m., June 5 after being told two people had been shot and were inside the home.

There is no evidence of a struggle, and the incident is still under investigation.

WMBD TV can be reached at [email protected].

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