The Winnebago County State’s Attorney’s Office has announced charges against Matthew L. Cavender, 18, of Rockford, for the murder of Desiree Weir-Stephens on Royal Avenue on May 16th.
Just after 4 p.m. on Wednesday, May 16th, police say Weir-Stephens was sitting outside her home when they allege Cavender walked up to her and started shooting.
She was taken away by ambulance and later died at the hospital of a gunshot wound to the head.
Cavender has been charged with First Degree Murder, Aggravated Discharge of a Firearm, Possession of a Firearm without a FOID card, and Mob Action.
Marilyn Hite-Ross, Chief of the Criminal Bureau, said Cavender and Weir-Stephens were acquainted.
Cavender is currently being held in the Winnebago County Jail on a $1 milliion bond.
