Crime
Christopher Rowell kills 3 women, shoots himself in Hilliard home, 5-year-old daughter able to escape
Sources have confirmed that one of the victims is Marissa Rowell, Christopher Rowell’s wife.
NASSAU COUNTY, Fla. — A man fatally shot three women inside a Hilliard home Thursday evening before turning the gun on himself in a suspected murder-suicide, according to the Nassau County Sheriff’s Office.
During a Friday morning press conference, Nassau County Sheriff Bill Leeper described the incident as both “tragic” and “heartbreaking.”
The shooting occurred around 8 p.m. at a residence on West 12th Avenue.
Authorities were alerted to the situation when a 5-year-old girl reportedly walked from the home to a neighbor’s house and informed them that 34-year-old Christopher Rowell had killed three women inside.
Deputies quickly responded and entered the residence. While conducting a search of the home, officers discovered a woman lying in a pool of blood between the living room and dining room.
As deputies rendered aid to the victim, they noticed Rowell nearby, also lying in blood with a gunshot wound to the head.
An SKS-style rifle was found beside him.
Deputies noted that Rowell still had a faint pulse and immediately called for medical assistance.
Further searching revealed two additional female victims—one located in a bathroom, and the other in a bedroom.
All three women were pronounced dead at the scene.
Sheriff Leeper confirmed that the women were related in some capacity, though he declined to specify the nature of their relationships pending official family notifications.
However, sources have confirmed that one of the victims is Marissa Rowell, Christopher Rowell’s wife.
Christopher Rowell was airlifted to a hospital in critical condition, where he remains under medical care. His exact condition has not been updated.
The 5-year-old girl, who miraculously was not physically harmed in the attack, is now in the custody of relatives.
Sheriff Leeper described the child as “a very strong and beautiful little girl” who is understandably in shock from the traumatic ordeal.
“This little girl has endured something no child should ever have to witness,” Leeper said. “She is going to need love, support, and a lot of help in the coming years. I just ask everyone to please keep her in your prayers.”
The Nassau County Sheriff’s Office continues to investigate the circumstances surrounding the shooting and is expected to release additional details as the case develops.
Anyone with information related to the case is encouraged to contact the Nassau County Sheriff’s Office.
CHICAGO, IL (Cook County) — Chicago police and emergency crews responded to an officer-involved shooting following a chaotic pursuit involving a stolen ambulance from Loretto Hospital.
According to preliminary reports, officers were dispatched to the intersection of West Chicago Avenue and North Cicero Avenue after a suspect allegedly stole an ambulance from the hospital premises.
During the ensuing pursuit, the suspect reportedly struck multiple police officers with the vehicle, prompting officers to discharge their weapons.
The suspect was subsequently taken into custody at the scene.
Emergency Medical Services (EMS) have been requested for two injured officers, who were transported to a nearby medical facility for treatment.
Their conditions have not yet been released.
Authorities have secured the area, and multiple law enforcement units remain on scene as the investigation continues.
The Civilian Office of Police Accountability (COPA) has been notified and will review the incident in accordance with department policy.