HIGHLAND PARK, IL — On March 3, 2025, Robert E. Crimo III pleaded guilty to charges stemming from the Highland Park Independence Day Parade shooting of July 4, 2022, which left seven people dead and 48 others injured. The plea came just moments before opening statements were set to begin, marking the unexpected conclusion to what was anticipated to be a lengthy trial. Crimo, 24, faced 117 felony counts, including 21 counts of first-degree murder, and his sudden decision to plead guilty halted proceedings only hours away from commencement.
Lake County State's Attorney Eric Rinehart expressed relief over the plea, underscoring, "We were 1000% ready for trial and to prove him guilty." During his statement, Rinehart highlighted the impact of Crimo’s actions, noting, "Our community may never heal from the defendant’s calculated and heinous actions." The attorney emphasized there was no plea agreement involved, stating, "This was not a negotiation. He made a free decision to plead guilty to every count without any strings attached."
At approximately 10:14 AM on July 4, 2022, during the Highland Park parade, Crimo fired 83 shots from the rooftop of a nearby building, killing individuals including Katie Goldstein, Irina McCarthy, and Kevin McCarthy. The massacre not only shattered lives but also left lasting trauma on the entire community. Rep. Brad Schneider (D-Highland Park) remarked on the tragedy, noting Crimo's act left the town traumatized.
Emotions ran high as Crimo's mother, Denise Pesina, exhibited distress after the plea was announced. The hearing had already accrued attention due to Crimo’s previous courtroom behavior and inconsistent intentions with his plea. Highland Park Mayor Nancy Rotering stated the plea was "1,000%" preferable to undergoing the trial, as it spared victims and their families the burden of reliving traumatic experiences. "I think at this moment, we’re all just sort of surprised and relieved," Rotering told reporters after the court session.
Assistant State's Attorney Ben Dillon outlined the evidence against Crimo, detailing how surveillance footage captured him approaching the parade area disguised and equipped with the weapon used during the assault. The court had gathered extensive evidence including DNA, fingerprint records, and witness testimonies, strengthening the case assembled by the prosecution team. Crimo was arrested approximately eight hours following the shooting, allowing law enforcement to present direct connections between him and the crime.
Looking forward, Crimo is set to face sentencing on April 23, 2025. Each of the 21 counts of first-degree murder carries the potential for natural life imprisonment without parole. "The fight for justice — and to prevent future tragedies — continues," remarked Romanucci & Blandin, representing numerous victims pursuing civil litigation against Crimo, his family, and contributing entities concerning gun control and safety.
The sentiment within Highland Park has been deeply affected since the tragic shooting, with the memory still haunting local businesses. At Central Cafe, many took refuge during the event, their experiences encapsulated within heartwarming yet heartbreaking notes expressing gratitude for safety during chaos. Store manager Lori Isaacs, who recalls the horrors of the event, expressed relief at Crimo’s guilty plea. "I don’t know what else he would plead besides insanity," she noted, recalling the tribulations she witnessed on the fateful day.
Residents including Liz Turnipseed, wounded during the shooting, voiced mixed emotions about the plea, oscillated between relief and disappointment. Turnipseed, who was preparing to give her statement during the anticipated trial, expressed joy at the certainty of Crimo's imprisonment. "I can finally, truly tell my daughter he’s going to prison and he’s never going to leave," she shared, reflecting on her struggle with the incident.
But the horror of the day lingers, and Highland Park remains united: "Highland Park Strong, forever,” Schneider emphasized, as community ties are strengthened by the resilience showcased among residents still grappling with the aftermath of the shooting.
Regarding the upcoming sentencing, Rinehart reiterated the importance of community support, outlining the resources available to victims and families affected by the shooting. "Our Victim Services Division remains dedicated to uplifting victims and connecting them to necessary resources," said Rinehart, addressing the future for those still healing and pursuing closure.
Justice, Rinehart concluded, is not merely about punishment; it encompasses communal healing as well, recognizing all who stepped forward. "The ability to hold the defendant accountable is pivotal for so many who share the burden of his actions," he said. The path to healing remains long, as Highland Park observes the proceedings with collective hope for closure.