Evanston, IL – A 23-year-old Illinois man, Khiryan Monroe, has pleaded guilty to second-degree murder for fatally shooting 29-year-old Servando Hamros while the victim was playing Pokémon Go with his 6-year-old daughter in a local park. Monroe was sentenced to 20 years in prison and received credit for time served.
Fatal Shooting in Evanston Park
The shooting occurred on July 14, 2022, when Hamros discovered Monroe and his girlfriend allegedly engaged in a sexual act, which Hamros reportedly recorded on his cellphone. Monroe and the woman fled the scene, but Monroe returned home to retrieve a firearm before heading back to the park.
Prosecutors reported that Monroe fired approximately 17 shots, fatally striking Hamros in front of his 6-year-old daughter, who was witnessing the attack.
Daughter Uses FaceTime During Shooting
While taking cover, Hamros’ daughter called her family via FaceTime, telling them:
“Daddy’s shot, Daddy’s shot. Please come help me, please help me!”
The harrowing call helped first responders locate the scene quickly.
Alleged Robbery and Self-Defense Claim
Monroe told police that he acted in self-defense, claiming that Hamros had robbed him and his girlfriend and was carrying a gun at the time. However, Hamros’ family disputed this account, and court documents noted that both phones belonging to Monroe and his girlfriend were found near Hamros at the scene, contradicting Monroe’s claim.
WBBM-TV reported that Monroe’s attorney said Hamros “was an armed robber, and these kids went back to get their telephones,” though the account was contested by prosecutors.
Evidence From Ring Camera
Authorities also reviewed Ring camera footage showing Monroe and his girlfriend leaving his home after the shooting, with Monroe holding a weapon. Prosecutors stated that another individual was seen carrying something in a bag while wearing latex gloves, adding to the evidence against him.
Guilty Plea and Sentencing
On Tuesday, Monroe entered a guilty plea to one count of second-degree murder and was immediately sentenced to 20 years in prison, with credit for time already served. The case highlights the tragic impact of gun violence on families and the trauma inflicted on child witnesses.
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