Charles Holmes, a 44-year-old man from Lindenhurst, Illinois, tragically died on November 24, 2022, from a gunshot wound to the abdomen. The incident occurred on Thanksgiving Day at his home on Crooked Lake Lane. According to the Lake County Coroner's Office, the preliminary autopsy results confirmed that the cause of death was a gunshot wound. The shooting was reported to be accidental, involving his wife, Kellee Holmes, who is 41 years old.
The couple had just returned from a shopping trip to Jewel-Osco to purchase cooking supplies for the holiday when the incident occurred. Charles Holmes went to urinate in the corner of the garage, and as Kellee Holmes exited their vehicle with a firearm in her hand, it accidentally discharged, striking Charles in the abdomen. Despite being transported to Advocate Condell Medical Center, Charles Holmes succumbed to his injuries in the intensive care unit later that evening.
The Lindenhurst Police Department and the Lake Villa Fire Protection District responded to the scene following the 911 call made by Kellee Holmes. The police conducted a preliminary investigation, which included interviewing witnesses and collecting evidence. The case was reviewed with the Lake County State’s Attorney’s Office, leading to criminal charges against Kellee Holmes. She was charged with one count of reckless discharge of a firearm, a Class 4 felony. During the bond hearing, it was revealed that Kellee Holmes possessed a valid Firearm Owners Identification (FOID) card and a concealed carry license. Despite the charges, the court found insufficient probable cause for the "reckless" nature of the charge, and Kellee Holmes was released on a $20,000 personal recognizance bond. The incident remains under investigation by the Lindenhurst Police Department, and Kellee Holmes was scheduled to appear for a preliminary hearing on December 15, 2022.
This tragic event highlights the dangers of firearm mishandling and the severe consequences that can arise from such accidents. The community of Lindenhurst was undoubtedly shaken by the incident, and the ongoing investigation aims to provide a clearer understanding of the circumstances surrounding Charles Holmes' death. The legal proceedings against Kellee Holmes will determine the extent of her culpability in this unfortunate accident.
