Emily Romo Obituary, Death; Orland Park man fatally attacks teen, injures mother before being shot by police.

Emily Romo Obituary, Death – Police in Cook County say a tragic domestic violence incident in Lyons Township has left a teenage girl dead, her mother seriously injured, and a man facing multiple charges after being shot by an officer during the attack.

Authorities identified the suspect as 35-year-old Juan Carlos Perez-Abarca of Orland Park, who initially faced charges of attempted murder and home invasion. However, officials stated that murder charges are expected following the death of 16-year-old Emily Romo, who succumbed to her injuries late last week.

The Cook County Sheriff’s Office reported that deputies responded around 5:30 p.m. Monday to a call of domestic violence at an apartment in the 6400 block of Joliet Road. When an officer entered the home, Perez-Abarca was found holding a 48-year-old woman at knifepoint on the floor, while Romo lay motionless beside them.

Police said the officer commanded Perez-Abarca to drop the knife, but instead he pressed it to his own throat before suddenly stabbing the woman again. The officer then fired, striking Perez-Abarca in the leg to stop the attack.

Investigators later determined that Romo had been suffocated before the stabbing incident. She was rushed to the hospital but passed away Thursday night, according to officials. Her mother survived but remained in serious condition as of Friday.

Authorities revealed that Perez-Abarca had previously been in a relationship with Romo’s mother. Reports indicate the woman had recently ended the relationship and sought an emergency protective order against him prior to the attack. Although her initial request was denied, a judge granted the order after the stabbing occurred.

Following the incident, Perez-Abarca was hospitalized but discharged by Thursday evening. He appeared in court the next day in a wheelchair, where a judge ordered him held at Cook County Jail without bail until his next hearing on September 5.

The Cook County Sheriff’s Office also released body-camera footage from the responding officer, showing the moments leading up to the shooting. Authorities say the officer’s quick response prevented further harm to the woman, though the attack had already turned deadly for the teenager.

The case has highlighted the dangers of domestic violence and the devastating outcomes when protective measures fail to prevent escalating situations. Police emphasized that the investigation remains ongoing, and additional charges are expected against Perez-Abarca in connection with Romo’s death.

Community members have expressed grief and outrage over the incident, especially given Romo’s young age and the violence directed at both her and her mother. Officials have urged anyone experiencing domestic violence or threats to seek help immediately and make use of available protective resources.

As of now, Perez-Abarca faces attempted murder and home invasion charges, with murder charges anticipated. The family of Emily Romo continues to mourn her loss while her mother recovers from her injuries. The tragedy underscores the severity of domestic violence and its far-reaching consequences.