Prosecutors Reveal Harrowing Details in Deadly Lyons Township Attack – A west suburban community is grappling with grief and outrage after prosecutors revealed chilling details in court about a violent home inva sion that claimed the life of 16-year-old Emily Romo and left her mother hospitalized. The accused, 35-year-old Juan Carlos Perez-Abarca of Orland Park, faces charges that will soon include murder, as prosecutors say his attack was deliberate and fueled by a history of domestic conflict.
The Attack
The incident occurred Monday evening inside a second-floor apartment on the 6400 block of Joliet Road, near La Grange and Countryside. Prosecutors allege Perez-Abarca used a ladder to climb into the residence while his former girlfriend—the 48-year-old mother—was away attempting to secure an emergency protective order against him. That request, tragically, was denied earlier that same day.
Once inside, Perez-Abarca reportedly hid in a closet, waiting for the victims’ return. When the mother and daughter came home, prosecutors said Perez-Abarca attacked without warning. He allegedly placed a plastic bag over Emily’s head, suffocating her, before turning his knife on the mother, stabbing her repeatedly.
Deputies responded around 5:30 p.m. to a domestic violence call. They found Perez-Abarca pinning the mother to the floor and stabbing her, while Emily lay motionless nearby. Despite repeated commands, the suspect continued his assault. A deputy then fired, striking Perez-Abarca in the leg.
Police Response and Aftermath
All three—the suspect, the mother, and Emily—were rushed to area hospitals. Emily fought for her life but succumbed to her injuries Thursday night. Her mother remains hospitalized in serious condition and is expected to survive. Perez-Abarca was treated for his gunshot wound before being released into police custody.
Victims Remembered
The loss of Emily Romo has devastated neighbors, friends, and classmates. Described as kind and full of potential, Emily’s life was cut short in an act many say was preventable. “She was innocent—just a kid,” said Shamonda Hall, a close family friend. “To take her life because of anger toward her mother is beyond cruel.”
Neighbors recalled suspicious behavior in the days leading up to the attack, including Perez-Abarca reportedly lurking outside the building, suggesting the assault was premeditated.
History of Domestic Conflict
Prosecutors outlined a troubling history between Perez-Abarca and the mother. Their prior relationship had ended badly, with repeated instances of stalking and harassment in recent weeks. The denial of the emergency protective order left the victim vulnerable, and prosecutors said the suspect took advantage of that vulnerability to carry out the ambush.
Court Proceedings
Perez-Abarca appeared in court Friday in a wheelchair, charged with attempted murder and home invasion. Prosecutors confirmed that charges will be upgraded to murder following Emily’s death. A judge ordered him held without bond at the Cook County Jail, calling the incident “a horrific act of violence.” His next court date is September 5.
Investigations and Community Impact
The Cook County Sheriff’s Office released body camera footage showing the chaotic confrontation, while the Illinois State Police Public Integrity Task Force is reviewing the deputy’s use of force.
Meanwhile, the La Grange Highlands community is in mourning. Vigils are being planned for Emily as residents rally to support her grieving mother. The tragedy has reignited debate over the effectiveness of domestic violence protections, with many questioning whether stronger safeguards might have prevented such a devastating loss.
For now, Emily Romo’s family and community are left to grapple with heartbreak while awaiting justice.
