Anthony Yates
Authorities have arrested a dad from Illinois after he reportedly fired a gun at a bird. Police believe the bullet passed through the animal and struck his 14-year-old daughter.
Videos by Rare
What happened: According to a news release by the Monroe County Sheriff’s Department, the incident occurred on July 21 at around 1:34 PM. Emergency services responded to a medical emergency involving a 14-year-old female at 5925 State Route 3, Waterloo, Illinois.
- Authorities immediately began life-saving efforts on the teen, including CPR. Emergency staff transported her to a local hospital, where they declared her deceased. The news release identifies the 14-year-old as Emma Schultheis. Investigators determined she died from a gunshot wound.
- Police believe that Emma’s father, 34-year-old David Schultheis, attempted to shoot a buzzard that entered a brick building. He reportedly stayed out of the room to avoid ricochet, placing his arm in the doorway instead. The news release notes that he kept his head out of the room before pulling the trigger.
- The bullet hit the bird, but went straight through and out of a window. It ultimately hit David’s daughter, who was outside.
Authorities Have Charged Two People In Connection With The Shooting
Multiple charges: The Sheriff’s Department alleges that Schultheis “knowingly and unlawfully discharged a firearm in a reckless manner.” He voluntarily turned himself in at the Monroe County Jail.
- Authorities are charging the father with Reckless Discharge of a Firearm, which is a Class 4 Felony.
- Police are also charging a second individual, 58-year-old Karen A Schwarze, with multiple offenses. The statement alleges that Schwarze concealed Emma’s death, knowing it resulted from homicidal means. Officials also claim she attempted to conceal a Taurus .40 caliber pistol and influence the investigation.
- Schwarze faces one count of Concealment of a Homicidal Death, which is a Class 3 Felony. She also faces one count of Obstructing Justice, a Class 4 Felony. The news release explains she is making arrangements to voluntarily surrender herself in the near future.
“There are no words that can adequately express the heartbreak and gravity of this tragic event,” a statement from the Sheriff’s Department reads. “The death of a child under any circumstances is profoundly devastating.” The release concludes that all individuals are presumed innocent until proven guilty in court.
