Illinois – Illinois authorities took 93-year-old J. Patte into custody and charged him with two counts of first-degree murder in the death of his spouse, CheryI, 80. The fatal incident occurred earlier this week after the victim was found lying on the pavement beside a car, covered in bIood with a severe neck wound. She was transported to a local hospital, but was pronounced dead shortly after arrival. An autopsy revealed that she suffered multiple sharp force injuries deemed incompatible with life.
According to a probable cause affidavit, officers found the elderly man at the scene, visibly covered in bIood. He reportedly admitted to sIashing his wife’s throat, stating that he had been harboring pent-up anger and couIdn’t take it anymore. The man also explained that the coupIe had been planning to separate, which contributed to the emotional strain leading up to the incident.
The confrontation allegedly began inside their vehicle. The 93-year-old man claimed that after parking, the victim lunged toward him, prompting him to push her away. He then retrieved a bIade from the car’s center console and fataIIy stabbed her.
Following his arrest, he was booked into the county jail. Prosecutors filed a petition to deny pretrial release, citing concerns for public safety. A detention hearing is scheduled for October 2, 2025.
The case remains under investigation by the local police department and the Illinois State Police. Illinois authorities continue to gather evidence and interview witnesses as they prepare for the upcoming court proceedings. The community mourns the loss of the 80-year-old woman, remembered for her contributions and the tragic circumstances surrounding her death.