33-Year-Old Man Kills Girlfriend, Her 13-Year-Old Son, and Friend Before Taking His Own Life

Lifestyle
Paul Johns
March 2, 2025
11 minutes read

( Image: GoFundMe)

A devastating scene unfolded in Bloomington, Illinois, as four individuals, including a 13-year-old boy, were found dead in what authorities are investigating as a triple murder-suicide. The victims, discovered in the 900 block of North Lee Street, have been identified as Christopher H. Simmons, 33; his girlfriend Chelsea L. Lusher, 31; her son Armoni L. Bennett, 13; and Lusher’s friend Trina J. Hollings, 31, according to the Bloomington Police Department and the McLean County Coroner’s Office.

Preliminary autopsy results indicate that Simmons died from a self-inflicted gunshot wound to the head, while Lusher, Hollings, and Bennett succumbed to multiple gunshot wounds. Authorities believe Simmons fatally shot the trio before taking his own life. The firearm used in the killings, found under Simmons’ body, was legally purchased by him in 2021, told 25 News Now.

However, his Illinois Firearm Owners Identification card was later revoked, rendering his possession of the weapon illegal. Bloomington Police Chief Jamal Simington expressed profound grief over the tragedy, stating, “Our entire department mourns because of the unfortunate loss of life in our community. We stand for all who were victimized and offer our thoughts and prayers.

Life is so precious, and we will remain anchored in justice and working with the community to enhance the quality of life here in Bloomington.” Simington also addressed the delay in releasing details, emphasizing the need for a thorough investigation and respect for the victims’ families.

Trina Hollings was described as ‘most beautiful soul in the room’ ( Image: GoFundMe)

“We appreciate the community’s patience as we worked diligently with our public safety partners and the community to gather facts prior to releasing details. This slight delay is necessary and out of respect for justice and the families of the victims,” he said.

In the wake of the tragedy, a GoFundMe campaign launched by Courtney Lusher, Chelsea’s brother, has raised over $21,000 to cover funeral expenses and support her two surviving daughters. “We are raising funds to help cover Chelsea’s funeral expenses and give her the farewell she deserves.

Chelsea Lusher is survived by two daughters ( Image: GoFundMe)

Any remaining donations will go toward supporting her daughters as they navigate life without their mother’s love and guidance,” Courtney shared. A second fundraiser, organized by Armoni’s father, Allante Bennett, aims to raise $25,000 for funeral costs and to establish a scholarship in his son’s honor.

“I want to keep his dream alive, to continue the work he was destined to do. I want to make sure his name and his legacy lives on,” Bennett said. A third GoFundMe page has been created to assist Hollings’ mother with funeral expenses, stating, “No mother should have to grieve the loss of their child while worrying about after-life expenses.”

Armoni Bennett’s father wants to start a scholarship in his memory ( Image: GoFundMe)

The community gathered for a candlelight vigil outside the home where the tragedy occurred, mourning the loss of Lusher, a beloved State Farm employee. State Farm released a statement expressing their sorrow: “We are saddened by the tragic and sudden loss of our colleague, Chelsea.

Her co-workers described her as a bright light who was always kind, had a positive attitude, and strong work ethic.” The Bloomington Police Department continues its investigation into the heartbreaking incident.