A man accused of beating and choking a woman during a carjacking in Harwood Heights, Illinois, is facing additional charges. The victim, identified as Ma Operio, died from her injuries. The suspect, Reese Miller, was caught in the stolen vehicle and a note apologizing for the attack was found inside. Gabriel Castillo reported
HARWOOD HEIGHTS, Ill. (WGN-TV) — A man accused of a violent carjacking in Harwood Heights, Illinois, is now facing additional charges as police continue their investigation. Reese Miller, a 24-year-old suspect, allegedly attacked and strangled a 61-year-old woman outside her house on North Natchez Avenue on Wednesday. The victim, identified as Ma Operio, was left in critical condition and was on life support. Sadly, she succumbed to her injuries and passed away on Sunday, according to the Cook County Medical Examiner’s Office.
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The incident unfolded early in the morning when a neighbor witnessed the attack. The witness reported seeing Operio lying on the road, with a person in a black hoodie on top of her, choking her. The suspect then fled the scene in Operio’s blue Toyota, leaving the trunk open. The witness immediately called 911, and when the police arrived, they found Operio lying face down with a zip tie tightened around her neck.
Miller was apprehended later that morning by Crete police officers in the stolen vehicle. He was wearing the same clothes described by the witness, and he had scrapes on his hands and knees, as well as a spot of blood on his jeans. The stolen vehicle was towed to the Harwood Heights Police Station, where officers discovered a knife and a handwritten note inside. The note expressed remorse and claimed that the violent act seemed like the only choice.
Surveillance video from the area showed Miller walking towards the victim’s home just eight minutes before the attack, wearing the same clothing he was arrested in. During questioning, Miller confessed to taking the victim’s car after pulling her out and placing the zip tie around her neck. He also admitted to writing the note found inside the vehicle and explained that the scrapes on his hands and knees occurred during the struggle.
The Cook County State’s Attorney’s Office revealed that Miller admitted the knife found in the stolen car belonged to him. He stated that he moved the victim away from the vehicle to avoid running her over when fleeing the scene. Miller was subsequently charged with first-degree murder and aggravated vehicular hijacking.
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Following Operio’s death, Harwood Heights police plan to pursue additional charges against Miller. The investigation is ongoing as authorities gather more evidence and statements related to the case.
The tragic incident has left the community shocked and saddened. Operio’s family and friends are mourning her loss and seeking justice for the heinous crime committed against her. The local authorities are working diligently to ensure that all charges are brought against Miller and that he is held accountable for his actions.
The impact of this incident has highlighted the importance of community safety and the need for continued efforts to prevent such acts of violence. The Harwood Heights Police Department is urging residents to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activities to help maintain the security of the neighborhood.
As the investigation progresses, the community is rallying together to support Operio’s family and remember her as a beloved member of the community. The loss of a life in such a senseless and violent manner serves as a stark reminder of the need for unity and the commitment to promoting peace and safety for all..
