Illinois stabbing rampage kills 4, injures 5; police unclear on motive

At least four people were killed and five injured during a stabbing rampage in Rockford, Ill., on Wednesday, with police saying there was no clear motive for the attack. A U.S. Postal Service mail carrier was among those killed.

Rockford police said in a statement they had taken a 22-year-old male into custody after officers responded about 1:15 p.m. Wednesday to “multiple addresses” all near the Cleveland Avenue neighborhood. The suspect’s name was not released.

Police said a 15-year-old girl, a 63-year-old woman, a 49-year-old man and a 22-year-old man had died, but did not identify the individuals. Five other people are being treated in the hospital for “serious injuries,” they added.

“This is a very active and multi-level, multi-agency investigation and has an extensive amount of moving parts,” the statement said. “As with any investigation, further details and charges may come at a later date.”

The U.S. Postal Inspection Service confirmed Thursday in a statement that a letter carrier had been killed in the attack. “At this time, there are no additional details we can provide, as this is an active investigation. Postal inspectors are working with the Rockford Police Department in this investigation,” the agency said in a statement.

Police encouraged local residents to review their security footage and to contact them with any information.

Local faith leaders and government officials said late Wednesday that a vigil would take place Thursday at 2:30 p.m. local time to “support the loved ones, families and neighbors,” following the “violent attacks.”