Man accused of attacking ex-girlfriend at U of I tailgate

CHAMPAIGN, Ill. (WCIA) — A man is facing domestic battery and firearm charges in Champaign County after police said he attacked an ex-girlfriend while armed at a tailgate near Memorial Stadium on Saturday.

Officials with the University of Illinois Police Department said the attack happened at 7:40 p.m. in Lot 31, across the street from where the Fighting Illini defeated Central Michigan hours earlier. Witnesses said a man flashed a gun in the waistband of his pants and grabbed a woman by the neck.

Responding officers found the reported subject — identified as 34-year-old Tristan Banks of Chicago — and detained him. Officials said a search of Banks found two loaded guns and two extra magazines.

Officials added that after speaking with witnesses, officers learned the woman Banks allegedly attacked is an ex-girlfriend and he has a history of domestic violence toward her.

Banks was taken to the Champaign County Jail and was booked on charges of felony domestic battery, misdemeanor aggravated unlawful use of a weapon and misdemeanor possessing a firearm while under the influence. Court records show he is scheduled to be arraigned on these charges Monday afternoon.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WCIA.com.