After a series of senseless acts of violence in Rockford, Illinois, 22 year old Christian Soto left four people dead and seven more injured in a series of horrific and seemingly random attacks. He went on a murderous rampage invading homes and stabbing victims in broad daylight. A courageous 15 year old girl was killed trying to save her sister in the attacks.
Seven other people were harmed in his vicious spree of violence that stole the lives of innocent people and left many more scarred from their injuries and the emotional trauma. He was taken into custody and charged with murder, attempted murder, and home invasion.
The Mayor condemned Soto’s despicable actions, offering some comfort to grieving families now mourning the loss of their loved ones. Rockford Police Chief Carla Redd says that “words can’t express her thoughts” and that Christian committed “heinous crimes.”
Christian Soto is expected be in court next week.
The violence began when a 911 call came through by a frantic witness that reported a person had been ruthlessly run over by a vehicle and possibly stabbed as well. Officers located the bodies of a man and woman identified as his long term friend Jacob Schupbach, 23, and Ramona Schupbach, 63. Both appeared to have been stabbed. He admitted to police that he knew the victim and he believed his marijuana was laced.
Soto also admitted to killing the mail man Jay Larson. He served 25 years with U.S. Postal office and lost his life doing what he loved, and serving his community. At a separate location, Mr. Soto entered a home through an unlocked back door, retrieved a baseball bat and attacked 3 teenage girls, unfortuantely killing 15 year old Jenna Newcomb, as she protected her sister and friend from the attack.
The attacks continued into Winnebago county, ultimately leading up to Soto’s arrest. He faces up to 60 years in prison on each count of first-degree murder and attempted first-degree murder, and up to 30 years in prison for each count of home invasion.
