Rockford Police Releases Info About Domestic Murder on Searles Ave

More details have been released by the Winnebago County Sheriff's Office regarding a tragic incident that occurred on the north end of the city Wednesday night (1/24).

Two Dead After Apparent Murder-Suicide

According to the press release from WCSO, deputies responded to the 2900 block of Searles Avenue on Wednesday night (1/24) around 8:20 pm for a "domestic shooting."

When Sheriff Deputies arrived on the scene they discovered a 25-year-old female victim who was suffering from multiple gunshot wounds and a 24-year-old male who was deceased from an apparent self-inflicted gunshot.

The female victim was transported to a Rockford area hospital where she died from the injuries, according to the Winnebago County Sheriff.

Our hearts go out to the families affected by this deeply tragic incident. We understand the impact such events have on our community, and we are committed to providing support and resources to those who are grieving. -Sheriff Gary Caruana, Winnebago County Sheriff's Office

In the press release, Sheriff Caruana also spoke directly to anyone who is experiencing abuse or domestic violence stressing that it is "crucial to understand that there is no acceptable excuse or justification for any behavior that endangers your well-being."

Woman Killed in Domestic Murder on Searles Avenue Identified

The name of a female shooting victim involved in the apparent domestic murder on Searles Ave was revealed today after the completion of an autopsy.

25-year-old Jessica Young-Thomas died of a gunshot wound, according to a press release from the Winnebago County Coroner.

You can call 911 anytime or call these other local support services if you're in an abusive or violent domestic situation:

• Winnebago County Domestic Violence Assistance Center, 400 West State Street, 815-516-2440
• Rockford Family Peace Center, 315 N. Main Street, Rockford 779-348-7600
• Remedies, 215 Easton Parkway, Rockford 24 hr. hotline 815-962-6102
• National 24-hour Domestic Violence Hotline 1-800-799-7233