RICHTON PARK, IL — Authorities have released the photo of 21-year-old Javonte T. Morris, the man accused of fatally shooting his mother and her partner inside a Richton Park apartment this past weekend.
The release of the photo comes as chilling new details emerge regarding the moments leading up to the double homicide in the 22500 block of Jackson Court.
Court documents reveal that the shooting was the culmination of a domestic dispute.
Morris had reportedly been arguing with his mother, Nivia Phillips, after she threatened to remove him from the home.
On the day of the shooting, Phillips sent a text message to a cousin stating that Morris was “talking about shooting” her.
Minutes later, a witness on a phone call with Phillips reported hearing the sound of a gun being “racked” and Morris threatening a shootout if police arrived.
“My Father Shot Them”
Perhaps the most tragic detail of the investigation is the testimony of a young child found at the scene.
The child, identified as Morris’ daughter, was discovered hiding under a table near her toys.
She told investigators she witnessed her father shoot both victims, describing one victim bleeding under a blanket while the other struggled to breathe.
Evidence Recovered
Illinois State Police assisted in the investigation, recovering:
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A .380-caliber Smith & Wesson handgun from the living room.
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Five shell casings from a bedroom.
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Evidence of bullets recovered from both victims.
Current Status
Javonte T. Morris is currently being held in the Cook County Jail on two counts of first-degree murder. His next court appearance is set for Jan. 21 in Markham.
