Chippewa Falls Police Chief Matthew Kelm revealed that a juvenile suspect was taken into custody on Tuesday evening, April 26, in connection with the death of the Illiana “Lily” Peters.
The chief stated how there is no longer a danger to the community.
Chief Kelm revealed how the suspect was not a stranger. In fact, the suspect was known to the 10-year-old victim.
“While nothing will bring Lily Peters back or change what happened, we are very grateful to be able to deliver this news for the family and for the community,” the chief said.
“Driving through town and through our communities, we can see the purple ribbons – and honestly, I expect nothing less from the Chippewa Falls community.”
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The body of Illiana “Lily” Peters was discovered this past Monday morning near a walking trail in Chippewa Falls. Police have ruled her death a homicide.
Lily was last seen by family members Sunday evening. Her father called the police about 9 p.m. after she failed to return home from a visit to her aunt’s house, which is only blocks away from the girl’s home.
Chippewa County sheriff’s deputies and Chippewa Falls police used search dogs and sent up a drone as they looked for the missing girl. According to the police, a bike – which is believed to be Lily’s – was found near a walking trail.
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Lily was a fourth-grader at Parkview Elementary School, where an outdoor memorial of flowers, stuffed animals and balloons continued to grow, KSTP-TV reported.
Jeff Holmes, the school district superintendent, sent a note to parents recommending that children who usually walk to or from school, be dropped off and picked up by family members or trusted friends instead until further notice.
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“A tremendous amount of work has gone into this investigation by a large team of investigators including those at the federal, state, county and local level,” Chief Kelm said.
“Law enforcement has been working on this case 24 hours a day since this call came in less than 48 hours ago.”
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