Beloit teen waived into adult court in homicide case

BELOIT — The 16-year-old suspect arrested in connection with the fatal shooting of a Janesville man in Beloit on April 5 has been waived into adult court.

Andre J. Rainey Jr. of Beloit, faces charges of party to the crime of first-degree intentional homicide, attempted first-degree intentional homicide, two counts of attempted armed robbery and possession of a firearm by an adjudicated delinquent, according to online court records.

Rainey was being held on a $200,000 cash bond, according to online court records.

On April 5, a shooting victim, identified by the Rock County Medical Examiner’s Office as Jaiden Benitez, 20, of Janesville, was found in the 1300 block of Nelson Avenue in Beloit. Benitez, who was found in a vehicle, was taken to an area hospital and declared dead.

The Beloit Police Department is continuing its investigation in the case.

“This remains an active and ongoing investigation,” Beloit Police Chief Andre Sayles said. “Our detectives will diligently pursue justice in this tragic loss of life. We will not rest until all responsible parties are in custody.”

Rainey was arrested by Beloit police on April 11.

Rainey is scheduled for an adjourned initial appearance in Rock County Circuit Court on Tuesday, April 23, according to online court records.

The death of Benitez was the first homicide in Beloit in 2024.