Thursday, February 27th:
*Pretrial Hearing (@ 3:45pm CT) - IL – Ariel Wall (1), Daemeon Wall (2), Rose Alwood (2), Jason Wall (34) & Kathryn Murray (69) (April 6, 2019, Timberline Mobile Home Park, Goodfield) - *Kyle Alwood (9) arrested & charged (10/7/19) with 5 counts of murder, 2 counts of arson & 1 count of aggravated arson. The aggravated arson charge is based on the conclusion that the child knew people were in the home at the time the fire was started. Plead not guilty.
The suspect, if convicted, could be put on probation for at least 5 years, but not beyond the age of 21, and could be eligible to receive therapy & counseling. Prison time is not an option. If the juvenile is under 12 years old, police can only hold him or her for 6 hours, and an attorney will be appointed for the child and the verdict & possible sentence would be decided by a judge (bench trial).
Kathryn Murray is his great-grandmother, Jason Wall is the stepfather, Ariel & Daemeon are his siblings, and Rose is his cousin. The other person who survived was his mom, Katrina Alwood (27). Mom says Kyle was recently diagnosed with schizophrenia, ADHD and bipolar disorder, and showed interest in fire and lighters.
10/21/19 Update: Hearing to be held behind closed doors. Katrina subpoenaed to attend & gag order placed on her. As Judge read the charges Kyle asked his attorney what the words “alleged” “arson” or “resident” meant. Next hearing is on 11/22.
11/22/19 Update: Alwood himself was not in court Friday, his father, mother, grandmother & aunt were in attendance. Alwood’s aunt & grandmother were asked to leave because of strict rules surrounding juvenile cases, and the potential that one or both could be called as witnesses. The defense in the case said they are still receiving evidence from the state. Another pretrial date has been set for Dec. 20. A prosecutor said he plans on filing two motions, one allowing for statements from the 9 year old accused in the case and another for statements on “past bad acts.” Judge issued a gag order on case.
12/20/19 Update: Defense attorney Peter Dluski requested the approval of funds to retain a Chicago-area doctor who will determine the boy’s fitness and to retain a private investigator. State’s Attorney Greg Minger did not object to either motion but noted the private investigator is Dave Frank, a retired police officer who works part-time with the Metamora Police Department in Woodford County. Judge Charles Feeney granted both motions but said he might not approve the doctor later, emphasizing the value of an objective and “meaningful expert.” The next hearing in the juvenile case was scheduled for 3:45 p.m. Feb. 27, granting enough time for the boy's fitness evaluation.