Downers Grove, Illinois — A 19-year-old suburban Chicago man has been arrested and charged in connection with the death of a pregnant woman who was found with stab wounds inside an apartment building fire along Ogden Avenue, authorities confirmed.
Police say Nedas Revuckas, a Westmont resident, was taken into custody Tuesday following an investigation into a fatal fire that broke out Monday evening in Downers Grove. Prosecutors have filed multiple felony charges, including first-degree murder, arson, robbery, homicide of an unborn child, and cruelty to animals.
Fire response leads to homicide investigation
According to Downers Grove police, officers and firefighters were dispatched around 6 p.m. Monday to a reported structure fire in the 2300 block of Ogden Avenue. While battling the blaze, first responders discovered a woman inside the apartment suffering from apparent stab wounds.
Paramedics attempted lifesaving measures, but the victim was pronounced dead at the scene.
Police later identified the victim as 30-year-old Eliza Morales, who was five months pregnant at the time of her death.
“This incident is being investigated as a homicide,” police said in a statement released Tuesday.
Victim remembered by family
Morales’ family told local media that she had been cooking dinner inside her apartment when the attack occurred. Relatives said they do not know the suspect and were stunned by the violence.
She leaves behind a 1-year-old daughter, according to family members.
“She was just at home, doing something ordinary, when everything changed,” a family member said.
The DuPage County Coroner’s Office has not yet released an official cause of death, pending further examination.
Teen suspect arrested, faces multiple charges
Authorities identified Nedas Revuckas, 19, as the suspect and arrested him Tuesday. He is currently being held at the DuPage County Jail and is scheduled to appear in court for a detention hearing on Wednesday.
Prosecutors allege the fire was intentionally set and that the stabbing occurred prior to the blaze, leading to the array of charges that include arson and homicide of an unborn child.
Fire scene investigation ongoing
In addition to Morales, a second person was treated at the scene for smoke inhalation and transported to a nearby hospital. No other injuries were reported.
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Multiple agencies are assisting with the investigation, including:
- DuPage County Arson Task Force
- Office of the Illinois State Fire Marshal
Police say the investigation remains active, and additional details may be released as evidence is reviewed.
“We are continuing to follow all leads and are working closely with our partner agencies,” officials said.
Community urged to assist
Authorities are asking anyone with information related to the incident to contact Downers Grove police at 630-434-5600.
As the investigation continues, the community is grappling with the loss of a young mother and her unborn child in what police describe as a violent and tragic crime.
What are your thoughts on this case and the charges filed so far? Share your reactions and questions in the comments below.
