Emily Romo dies in fatal stabbing in Lyons Township, Illinois
Fatal stabbing death of Emily Romo in Lyons Township, Illinois
Lyons Township authorities confirmed the death of 16-year-old Emily Romo following a stabbing incident reported last week in the unincorporated community. The suspected perpetrator, identified as 35-year-old Juan Carlos Perez-Abarca, remains in custody.
According to Cook County sheriff’s officials, law enforcement arrived at Joliet Road on Monday, August 11th at 5:30 p.m. to investigate a domestic violence situation. Upon arrival, officers encountered a man restraining a 47-year-old woman who was injured and bleeding. The 16-year-old victim, Emily Romo, was discovered nearby, reportedly lying unresponsive and bleeding.
During the officers’ intervention, the suspect momentarily threatened himself before continuing the assault on the restrained woman. In self-defense, the responding officer fired a single shot, striking the suspect in the leg.
Tragically, Emily Romo was pronounced deceased at Loyola University Medical Center on Thursday, August 14th at 10:13 p.m. The 47-year-old woman received treatment at an area hospital in serious condition.
Perez-Abarca, appearing in court via wheelchair, faces charges including two counts of attempted murder and one count of home invasion. Following the 16-year-old victim’s death, these charges are expected to be upgraded to murder. His next court appearance is scheduled for September 5th.
