A quiet Illinois community is reeling after authorities charged two teenagers in the killings of five members of the same family, a tragedy that claimed the lives of relatives spanning three generations.
According to Illinois State Police, 16-year-old Ja’ymier Davis has been charged as an adult with five counts of first-degree murder, one count of dismembering a human body, two counts of attempted first-degree murder, two counts of aggravated battery, aggravated vehicular hijacking, and unlawful use of a firearm. A 15-year-old girl, who is related to all of the victims, has also been arrested, and prosecutors are seeking to charge her as an adult with first-degree murder.
The investigation began on Sunday, July 12, after human remains were discovered at a residence in East St. Louis. Authorities later identified the remains as those of 49-year-old Cherie L. May. The discovery led investigators to four additional crime scenes, where the bodies of four more victims were found.
The victims have been identified as:
- Patricia A. May, 74
- Cherie L. May, 49
- Shania W. Thompson, 25
- Devin D. May, 24
- Quentin L. Thompson, 21
Family members described Patricia May as the family’s beloved matriarch. Cherie was her daughter, Devin was her grandson, and siblings Quentin and Shania were also among those killed, leaving loved ones devastated by the loss of multiple generations in a single act of violence.
Two additional relatives survived the attack but suffered serious injuries. Family members identified them as Tiffany, the mother of Quentin and Shania, and another cousin, both of whom remain hospitalized.
The tragedy has also left behind a 1-year-old daughter of Devin May. Loved ones have launched GoFundMe campaigns to help cover funeral expenses and support surviving family members as they cope with the unimaginable loss.
Authorities say the suspects were taken into custody after law enforcement identified a vehicle connected to the investigation. Investigators have not yet disclosed a motive for the killings but stated there is no ongoing threat to the community.
According to the 15-year old girl’s father, the violence stemmed from deep-seated family disputes and a plot to harm the relatives who tried to keep the couple apart.
The investigation remains active.
