Chicago police have filed additional murder charges against 21-year-old Antonio Reyes, alleging he was responsible for the deaths of six individuals over a nine-month period in 2020 when he was a minor. Reyes now faces five counts of first-degree murder and four counts of attempted murder, as confirmed by Chicago Police Superintendent Larry Snelling during a press briefing.
Superintendent Snelling expressed disbelief at the level of violence exhibited by Reyes, highlighting the profound disregard for human life reflected in his actions. Reyes was arrested in December 2020 and has been in custody at the Cook County jail, awaiting trial for the murder of a 26-year-old man in June 2020, among other crimes.
The newly filed charges relate to incidents that occurred between March and November 2020, involving victims aged 16 to 31. Notably, Reyes faces additional charges for attempting to murder children aged between three and nine, who were present in the vehicle of an adult victim targeted in a drive-by shooting.
One of the victims was killed while visiting a gas station, while another was shot in a parked car. A third individual was critically injured while accompanying his family on a visit to buy a puppy and later died from his wounds.
While in custody, Reyes reportedly attempted to attack a cellmate, according to Cook County State’s Attorney Eileen O’Neill Burke. Snelling praised the detectives for their relentless pursuit of justice during the protracted investigation, emphasising their commitment to the victims and their families.
There is no evidence to suggest the victims were connected or that Reyes had any personal motivations for targeting them. A significant breakthrough in the investigation came from the recovery of a .40 calibre handgun, which matched shell casings found at various crime scenes. Investigators also uncovered a considerable online presence for Reyes that aided their inquiries.
Authorities are continuing to examine any potential connections Reyes may have had with other cases. One victim, Claudio Cassio, is remembered by his mother, Nohemi Cossio, who expressed her grief and relief at seeing developments in the case, affirming her belief that justice will be served.
Reyes has pleaded not guilty to the new charges and is set to return to court on March 18 for a detention hearing. He is currently held without bail as the legal proceedings unfold.