PEORIA COUNTY, Ill. (25 News) — A man suspected in the deaths of a Peoria County mother and her 2-year-old son is now facing a first-degree murder charge.
According to 25 News, Peoria County prosecutors filed the charge Monday against 24-year-old Jeremiah Duncan in connection with the shooting death of 20-year-old Heaven Wood. The charge alleges Duncan shot Wood at Royal Oaks Estates, north of West Peoria.
Wood and her son, KJ Duncan-Wood, were killed early Friday. The Peoria County Coroner’s Office previously said Wood died from multiple gunshot wounds, while her son died from severe smoke inhalation after a vehicle fire.
As of late Monday afternoon, 25 News reports no charge had been filed against Duncan in connection with the child’s death. Peoria County Sheriff Chris Watkins confirmed Monday that Duncan is KJ’s father.
Duncan remains hospitalized with serious burns. Watkins said Duncan was armed with a knife when authorities took him into custody Friday.
Duncan’s medical condition has delayed court proceedings, including a hearing to determine whether he will remain in custody while awaiting trial. A judge tentatively scheduled a hearing for Monday, Oct. 5.
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