Christopher Simmons, Bloomington, Illinois man shoots dead his girlfriend, Chelsea Lusher, her teen son, Armoni Bennett, and gf’s friend, Trina Hollings then self in murder-suicide in what is believed to be domestic violence episode. Boyfriend had previous weapons violation.
Illinois authorities have stated a 33 year old man shooting dead three people at a Bloomington residence, before taking his own life in an apparent murder-suicide. One of the victims was described as being the gunman’s girlfriend.
Christopher H. Simmons, 33, is alleged to have gunned down his girlfriend, Chelsea L. Lusher, 31, also of Bloomington, her son, 13 year old teen, Armoni L. Bennett as well as Lusher’s friend, Trina J. Hollings, 31, of Normal, IL, before the ‘unhinged’ boyfriend using the murder weapon on himself according to social media.
According to a Facebook release from the Bloomington Police Department the shootings took place just before Sunday, 11 am, February 23, at a residence in the 900 block of North Lee Street, thought to be where the girlfriend resided.
Bloomington gunman previous weapons violation
Peoria Journal Star citing authorities reported Lusher, Hollings and Armoni Bennett, all dying from multiple gunshot wounds. A preliminary autopsy indicated Simmons dying from a self-inflected single gunshot wound to the head, according to the McLean County Coroner’s Office.
Police were called to the scene after a resident at the home came across the scene and called 911.
The firearm used in the homicide was recovered under Simmons’ body. It was legally purchased by Simmons in 2021; however, sometime after the purchase, Simmons’ Illinois Firearm Owners Identification card was revoked, and he was prohibited from possessing and purchasing firearms, police said.
Noted a November 30, 2022 release by Bloomington City: ‘On Thursday, 11/24/22, officers conducted a traffic stop near the intersection Wood Street and Bunn Street. During the stop, the passenger, CHRISTOPHER SIMMONS, fled the scene. After a short foot pursuit, Christopher was placed in custody. An article search was conducted in the immediate area where Christopher had fled. During the article search, a firearm was located. Christopher was arrested for UNLAWFUL USE OF A WEAPON and RESISTING.’
Come Monday night a vigil was held for the victims. Addressing attendants, Amber Thompson, the sister of Lusher, told the gathering, ‘If you’re in a domestic violence relationship, get out. Run! It’s not worth it. For real, it’s not worth it. I just lost my sister and nephew to domestic violence. My nieces lost their mom and their brother to domestic violence.’
Authorities continue to investigate.
