Omar Arturo Roman, a 26-year-old Hispanic male from Danville, Illinois, tragically lost his life on September 4, 2017. Omar was born on September 28, 1990, in Chicago, Illinois, to Arturo Roman and Susana Portugal. He was a beloved member of his family, known for his love of spending time with his relatives, especially his nephew, Aiden. Omar also enjoyed video gaming and hanging out with his friends.
His untimely death left a significant void in the lives of those who knew and loved him.
The circumstances surrounding Omar Roman's death were both tragic and violent. On the evening of September 4, 2017, Omar Roman and another Danville resident, Rafael Arevalo, were involved in a fatal encounter. Nicholas Trimble, a 42-year-old man from Champaign, Illinois, arranged a meeting with Arevalo to purchase cannabis. During the meeting, Trimble and an accomplice attempted to forcibly take the cannabis. The situation quickly escalated, resulting in Trimble shooting Rafael Arevalo six times, leading to his immediate death. Subsequently, Trimble and his accomplice opened fire on Omar Roman, who was shot a total of 15 times, resulting in his death.
The investigation into the murders of Omar Roman and Rafael Arevalo led to the arrest and prosecution of Nicholas Trimble. The case was handled by the Illinois Attorney General's office in collaboration with the Vermilion County State's Attorney's office. In February 2023, a Vermilion County jury found Nicholas Trimble guilty of six counts of first-degree murder for the deaths of Omar Roman and Rafael Arevalo. The conviction was a result of the concerted efforts of the Danville Police Department, the FBI, and the Attorney General's office. The sentencing hearing for Nicholas Trimble was scheduled for April 26, 2023.
The conviction of Nicholas Trimble brought some measure of justice to the families of Omar Roman and Rafael Arevalo. The authorities expressed hope that the verdict would aid in the healing process for those affected by the senseless violence. The case highlighted the importance of collaboration between various law enforcement agencies in addressing violent crime and ensuring that perpetrators are held accountable for their actions.
