ASHLAND, Ill. – The Cass County Sheriff’s Office released details about a tragic incident involving multiple deaths in the area. During a press briefing on Facebook, Sheriff Devron Ohrn confirmed that three individuals, all members of the same family, were found dead. Two of the victims were teenagers. The suspect, identified as Ronald L. Cobren, 62, was later found dead in Jacksonville from an apparent self-inflicted gunshot wound, according to authorities.
The victims were identified as 19-year-old Autumn Bell, who lived at the location where her body was found, as well as 53-year-old Christina Bell and 16-year-old Alaria Bell, who both resided at another address in Lockard Street. Additionally, a male victim was taken to the hospital with life-threatening injuries, but his name was not revealed.
This devastating incident has deeply impacted the tight-knit community of Cass County. Sheriff Ohrn expressed the sentiment that such heinous acts shake any community to its core, particularly small ones like Cass County that are known for their compassionate and helpful citizens. He urged the public to respect the family’s privacy and offer them compassion and prayers during this difficult time.
The investigation is ongoing, with the autopsy of the victims scheduled for Monday, Dec. 18. Multiple law enforcement agencies are involved in the investigative process, including Ashland Police, Pleasant Plains Police, the Menard County Sheriff’s Office, and the Illinois State Police.
As this story continues to develop, more details are expected to emerge.
This is a tragic and evolving situation, and further updates will be provided as they become available.