Brittney Long, a 24-year-old Caucasian woman from Sterling, Illinois, tragically lost her life on November 3, 2019. Brittney was found deceased in her home during a welfare check conducted by the Sterling Police Department. The welfare check was initiated by concerned family members after Brittney missed a family event and failed to respond to their calls. Upon arrival, officers discovered Brittney and her former boyfriend, Duane Briggs, both 24 years old, dead inside the residence.
Each had sustained a single gunshot wound to the head, and a firearm was recovered at the scene.
The preliminary investigation by the Sterling Police Department, with assistance from the Illinois State Police Crime Scene Services and the Whiteside County Coroner’s Office, indicated that Duane Briggs shot Brittney Long before turning the gun on himself in an apparent murder-suicide. The couple had a history of relationship issues, and they had moved into the residence on First Avenue about four to five months prior to the incident. Neighbors described them as keeping to themselves.
Brittney Long was a certified nursing assistant (CNA) employed at Regency Care of Sterling. She was remembered by colleagues and friends as a dedicated caregiver and a loving mother to her young son, Levi. The investigation into the circumstances surrounding her death revealed no other suspects or arrests, as the evidence strongly supported the conclusion of a murder-suicide. The case did not proceed to litigation or further legal action due to the nature of the findings.
The tragic loss of Brittney Long left a profound impact on her family, friends, and the community of Sterling. Her death highlighted the devastating consequences of domestic violence and the importance of addressing relationship issues before they escalate to such a tragic end. The investigation into her death was thorough, ensuring that all evidence was carefully examined to provide a clear understanding of the events that led to this heartbreaking incident.
