In a shocking turn of events, city authorities in Chicago have disclosed that a previously mysterious teen is believed to be the perpetrator behind a series of heinous serial murders. Antonio Reyes, currently 21 years old, allegedly targeted unsuspecting individuals in seemingly random attacks, as revealed by Cook County State’s Attorney Eileen O’Neill Burke during a press conference held on Wednesday. Accompanied by high-ranking city officials, including Chicago Police Superintendent Larry Snelling, Burke described how Reyes mercilessly shot and killed his victims while they were simply going about their everyday routines.
During the conference, Burke emphasized the apparent lack of any prior connection between Reyes and his victims, asserting that there was no discernible motive for his brutal actions. The victims, ranging from individuals purchasing items at a gas station to families out shopping for a pet, fell prey to Reyes’ violent spree, leaving a trail of devastation in his wake.
Reyes now faces a total of six murder charges, all stemming from the tragic events that unfolded on the city’s Southwest Side throughout 2020. Additionally, he has been accused of four counts of attempted murder, with three of the intended victims being innocent children between the ages of 3 and 9, according to statements made by Snelling.
The gravity of the situation was not lost on Burke, who expressed deep sorrow over the idea of a 17-year-old committing such horrific crimes over the span of nine months. Reyes had been under police custody since 2021 due to a separate murder charge, during which time he reportedly made an attempt on the life of his cellmate using a makeshift weapon.
Significant progress in the investigation was highlighted by Chief of Detectives Antionette Ursitti, who credited the police’s ability to link a .40-caliber handgun recovered from the scene to multiple shootings, as well as trace Reyes’ substantial presence on social media to the crimes. Snelling commended the relentless dedication of the detectives involved in solving the case, emphasizing their commitment to seeking justice for the victims and their families.
The sheer disregard displayed by the offender towards human life left Snelling and the city’s law enforcement community appalled. Reflecting on the tragedy of the six lives lost, Snelling expressed disbelief at the callousness exhibited by Reyes, questioning the extent of his potential involvement in other unreported incidents.
As the ramifications of this chilling revelation continue to unfold, the authorities remain vigilant in their pursuit of justice for the victims and their loved ones. Michael Loria, a national reporter for USA TODAY’s breaking news desk, can be contacted for further inquiries regarding this developing story.
This article was originally published on USA TODAY: Teen charged with random serial murders in Chicago
