Rockford, Illinois – A man in custody for a killing spree claimed that marijuana laced with an unknown drug triggered the violent incident that resulted in the deaths of four individuals, including a mailman and a 15-year-old girl.
Christian Soto, 22, is facing multiple charges, including four counts of first-degree murder, following the deadly rampage that took place in Rockford. The violence began midday on Wednesday when Soto, allegedly under the influence of the laced marijuana, attacked his friend and the friend’s mother with a knife. He then proceeded to fatally stab a mailman and break into other homes, leaving several injured and a teenage girl dead.
Law enforcement officials reported that Soto was apprehended after chasing down a victim in the street and stabbing her before a bystander intervened. The U.S. Postal Inspection Service confirmed that one of the victims was a USPS letter carrier and stated that they were collaborating with local authorities in the ongoing investigation.
Rockford Mayor Tom McNamara expressed shock over the violent attacks, emphasizing the need to support those affected by the tragedy. He reassured the community that the suspect was in custody and that efforts were underway to prevent similar incidents in the future.
A vigil to honor the victims of the killing spree has been scheduled at a specific location in the city, providing an opportunity for the community to come together in remembrance and support. The incident has sparked conversations about the potential dangers of drug use and its impact on individuals and communities. Law enforcement agencies continue to investigate the circumstances surrounding the violent events to gain a better understanding and ensure the safety of the public moving forward.