ILLINOIS — A 44-year-old Missouri man, S. Stokes, has been convicted of first-degree murder after breaking into his ex-girlfriend’s Illinois home and fatally shooting her new partner, J. Hayes, 32. The verdict came this week after a jury found him guilty of murder, home invasion, and possession of a stolen firearm.
The Deadly Confrontation
The incident occurred on November 7, 2023, after Stokes repeatedly called his ex-girlfriend before forcing his way into her home. Prosecutors described their relationship as “on-again, off-again,” marked by volatility and emotional turbulence.
Upon entering, Stokes found his ex-girlfriend in bed with Hayes. According to prosecutors, he immediately retrieved a gun from her purse, aimed it at Hayes—who tried to escape—and fired multiple shots. Hayes collapsed outside the house and later died at a nearby hospital from his injuries.
Crucial Evidence and Jury’s Decision
A key piece of evidence came from Stokes himself. Moments before firing, he accidentally called his ex-girlfriend, leaving an open phone line that recorded the entire shooting and the heated confrontation that followed. Prosecutors played the chilling audio, which captured Stokes yelling at his ex even 20 seconds after the final shot.
Stokes’ defense team argued he acted in self-defense, claiming Hayes had a weapon. However, prosecutors dismantled the claim, pointing to forced entry, use of the ex-girlfriend’s firearm, and his flight from the scene.
Escape, Arrest, and Trial
After the shooting, Stokes fled Illinois and traveled to Texas, where he discarded the murder weapon in a river. Authorities eventually captured him in Texas and extradited him to Illinois to stand trial.
Prosecutors highlighted a pattern of controlling behavior, deliberate home invasion, and premeditated violence fueled by jealousy. The jury concluded Stokes’ actions were not defensive but an act of revenge.
What’s Next
Stokes now awaits sentencing, with the date yet to be announced. He faces a lengthy prison term for a killing prosecutors described as a “moment of rage” that destroyed two lives and devastated multiple families.
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Katie is a senior who has been on staff for three years. Her favorite type of stories to write is reviews and features. Katie’s favorite ice cream flavor is strawberry.
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