Crime
Bloomington Police Investigate Murder-Suicide That Left Four Dead
BLOOMINGTON, IL – Authorities in central Illinois are investigating a tragic murder-suicide that claimed the lives of three individuals before the gunman fatally shot himself on Sunday afternoon.
According to a Monday night statement from the Bloomington Police Department (BPD), a preliminary investigation revealed that 33-year-old Christopher Simmons of Bloomington was responsible for the fatal shootings of:
- Chelsea Lusher, 31 – Simmons’ girlfriend
- Armoni Bennett, 13 – Lusher’s son
- Trina Hollings, 33 – A friend of Lusher
The shootings occurred at a residence in the 900 block of North Lee Street.
A fourth resident of the home discovered the gruesome scene and immediately called 911.
Authorities arrived at the location, where they pronounced all four individuals dead at approximately 12:30 p.m. Sunday.
Each victim suffered multiple gunshot wounds, according to investigators.
BPD confirmed that Simmons had legally purchased the firearm used in the crime in 2021. However, at some point after the purchase, his Illinois Firearm Owners Identification (FOID) card was revoked, making him legally prohibited from owning or purchasing firearms.
Bloomington Police Chief Jamal Simington expressed deep sorrow over the tragedy, stating:
“Our entire department mourns because of the unfortunate loss of life in our community. We stand for all who were victimized and offer our thoughts and prayers. Life is so precious, and we will remain anchored in justice while working with the community to enhance the quality of life here in Bloomington.”
Chief Simington also praised the efforts of officers and investigators, emphasizing that the delay in releasing details was necessary to ensure a thorough investigation and respect the victims’ families.
The Bloomington Police Department and the McLean County Coroner’s Office continue to investigate the deadly shooting.
Authorities urge anyone with additional information to contact Detective Kevin Raisbeck at 309-434-2593 or via email at kraisbeck@cityblm.org.
For those experiencing domestic violence or crisis situations, several resources are available:
- Safe Connections Crisis Helpline: 314-531-2003 (Text available from 7 a.m. to 4 p.m., Monday through Friday)
- ALIVE (Alternatives to Living in Violent Environments): 314-993-2777 (Franklin County Hotline: 800-941-9144)
- The Women’s Safe House: 314-772-4535 (24-hour support)
- Illinois Domestic Violence Resources: 211illinois.org
Authorities urge residents to seek help if they or someone they know is in a dangerous situation, reinforcing the importance of community awareness and support in preventing further tragedies.
SANTA ANA, CA — Community members are expressing outrage and concern following the release of Alejandro Acosta Oliveros, a 45-year-old Santa Ana resident, who has been accused of abducting, torturing, and killing numerous cats throughout Orange County.
Despite the serious nature of the allegations, Oliveros has been released on bail and is now back in the community as the investigation continues.
Dubbed a “serial cat killer” by law enforcement, Oliveros was arrested earlier this week after Santa Ana Police officers executed a search warrant at his residence on Wilshire Avenue.
Authorities reported that Oliveros confessed to the crimes during questioning, though the full extent of his actions remains under active investigation.
Officials have yet to determine how many animals were harmed, but investigators have stated that the number is believed to be “significant.”
According to a spokesperson for the Santa Ana Police Department, “We are still working to determine the scope of this case and how many cats may have been victimized. The cruelty involved is deeply disturbing.”
Community concern has mounted in recent weeks, as residents across Santa Ana and neighboring areas began sharing surveillance footage and firsthand reports of cats being lured, abducted, and later found injured or deceased.
One widely shared video from March 21 in Westminster showed a man, believed to be Oliveros, capturing Clubber, a 10-month-old Bengal Lynx cat.
While Clubber was eventually recovered and returned to his home, the suspect remained at large—until his arrest this week.
Disturbing reports later emerged indicating that many of the missing cats may have been killed. Posts from platforms like Nextdoor recounted chilling details of cats being restrained or allegedly injected with unknown substances.
In one report, a neighbor stated: “We saw the man tie a cat’s legs and walk off toward McFadden.” Another added: “My neighbor’s cat was killed. He was injected with something and didn’t survive.”
Despite the severity of the charges, Oliveros was released on bail shortly after his arrest.
This development has alarmed residents, animal advocates, and grieving pet owners who say they now fear for the safety of their pets—and for the wellbeing of their community.
“This is not just about one person’s loss. This is about protecting countless animals who deserve safety, love, and life,” said one resident. “We need to remain vigilant, speak out, and demand justice.”
The public is strongly encouraged to take the following steps:
- Report any suspicious behavior toward animals to local law enforcement or animal control immediately.
- Speak with neighbors and friends to raise awareness about the situation.
- Contact local officials and media outlets to demand accountability and advocate for stricter laws to prevent animal cruelty.
- Support victims and families who are grieving the loss of beloved pets.
The Santa Ana Police Department has stated that formal charges are expected to be filed soon and emphasized that the investigation is ongoing.
Authorities continue to gather evidence and encourage anyone with information to come forward.
Anyone with relevant information is urged to contact the Santa Ana Police Department at (714) 245-8665.
The community’s continued cooperation and vigilance will be essential in seeking justice for the animals affected and ensuring that those responsible are held fully accountable.