On August 17, 2023, 42-year-old Amanda Peterson was found deceased in her residence on the 300 block of West North Street in Watseka, Illinois. Authorities discovered her alongside 38-year-old Joseph Robinson, both victims of a fatal shooting. A 21-year-old male, identified as Robinson's son, sustained gunshot wounds during the incident and was transported to a nearby hospital for treatment.
The suspect, 44-year-old Scott E. Peterson from Kankakee, Illinois, was apprehended at the scene and subsequently charged with four counts of first-degree murder. Reports indicate that Amanda Peterson was his ex-wife. Following his arrest, bond for Scott Peterson was set at $7 million.
The Illinois State Police, in collaboration with the Watseka Police Department and the Iroquois County Coroner’s Office, conducted an extensive investigation, processing the crime scene for approximately 16 hours. The community of Watseka was deeply affected by the tragedy, with residents expressing shock and concern over the violence in their typically peaceful town.
As of now, the investigation remains ongoing, with authorities working to uncover the circumstances leading up to the shooting. The 21-year-old survivor underwent surgery and is reported to be in stable condition. Further details are awaited as the legal process continues.