Second teenager arrested in Decatur murder investigation

DECATUR, Ill. (WCIA) — A second teenager has been arrested in the investigation into a Decatur man’s murder.

John Staley, 63, was found beaten and shot to death on July 8 in the area of Monroe Street near Grand Avenue. Within hours, police arrested a 14-year-old boy in connection to the crime.

On Thursday, Decatur Police revealed more information about their investigation to WCIA. They discovered that before Staley was murdered, a 36-year-old woman was also present, and she was sexually assaulted by the teenager who was arrested on July 8. That teen will be charged with criminal sexual assault on top of the murder charges he already faces.

Decatur Police also discovered that a second boy, also 14 years old, was involved. He was arrested on Wednesday on charges of first degree murder and attempted criminal sexual assault.

There does not appear to be any relation between anyone, alleged offenders or victims.

As a result of the second teen’s arrest, Decatur Police served a search warrant in the area of West Elm Street and North Pine Street. The search resulted in two handguns being recovered, both of which were sent to the Illinois State Police Crime Laboratory for analysis.

The investigation into Staley’s murder is ongoing. Anyone with information is encouraged to contact the Decatur Police Department at 217-424-2734 or Macon County Crime Stoppers at 217-423-8477.

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