Mayor of Energy assaulted while surveying the community for winter storm damage

ENERGY, Ill. (KBSI) – Mayor of Energy physically assaulted on the side of the road.

On January 6, 2025, at 12:49 pm Williamson County Sheriff’s Office Investigators responded to the report of a male battered by a passing motorist.

Upon arrival, Investigators discovered that the Mayor of Energy, Illinois, was surveying the community for winter storm damage when a passing motorist physically assaulted him.

The mayor, 74-year-old Bengi McGee, was transported to Herrin Hospital for treatment of injuries including lacerations to his face and head.

Investigators attempted to interview the suspect, identified as John W. Alexander of Carterville, but he refused to cooperate.

Alexander was cited for the following:

-Aggravated Battery
 (Class 2 Felony)

-Aggravated Battery
 (Class 3 Felony)

-Threatening a Public Official
 (Class 3 felony)

Alexander was transported to the Williamson County Jail.