ROCKFORD, IL – Four people, including a postal worker, tragically lost their lives, while seven others were injured during a stabbing spree occurring in Rockford, Illinois, Wednesday.
A news statement from the Rockford Police Department identified the deceased as a 15-year-old girl, a 63-year-old woman, a 49-year-old man, and a 22-year-old man. Local hospitals treated the injured individuals for serious injuries.
Police Chief Carla Redd, during a Wednesday press briefing, emphasized the gravity of the incident. He referred to it as a multi-jurisdictional event, adding that one of the injured was in critical condition.
Sheriff Gary Caruana, Winnebago County, shared a detailed account of a woman who suffered facial and hand injuries during a home invasion. She is now in serious condition at the hospital. A man who assisted her was also stabbed but is reportedly stable.
The Rockford Police Department’s Michelle Marcomb confirmed that the incident spanned two jurisdictions: five victims in Rockford City and two in Winnebago County.
Authorities apprehended the suspect, a 22-year-old male, at approximately 1:35 p.m. local time. The police department assured that no additional suspects were at large. Reports indicated that not all victims suffered stab wounds.
Rockford City and its Mayor, Tom McNamara, plan to hold a vigil, as per a city Facebook post, to honor the victims of the violent attack. The Mayor’s emotional post read, “This has been one of the most difficult weeks I have seen in my seven years as Mayor…my heart is breaking for those who have lost their lives, their families and our community.”