NAPERVILLE, IL – A 61-year-old Illinois man, Alan Wang, has been convicted of first-degree murder for the brutal killing of his wife, Hongyan Yang, after prosecutors said he found texts from another man on her phone and repeatedly kicked her to death in their Naperville home in March 2020.
The Fatal Assault
Authorities reported that on March 7, 2020, Wang and his wife were in their bedroom when he discovered the messages. Prosecutors stated that Wang kicked Yang multiple times, causing severe injuries. The Chicago Sun-Times cited that his repeated blows to her legs caused deep soft tissue hemorrhaging, ultimately leading to her death.
The following day, a relative called 911 after Yang stopped breathing. Emergency personnel from the Naperville Police and Fire Departments responded at approximately 4:50 p.m..
Trial and Conviction
During his trial, Wang claimed he was merely trying to wake up his wife, but the court did not accept this defense. DuPage County Judge Ann Celine O’Hallaren Walsh found him guilty of first-degree murder after a four-day trial, upgrading his initial charge from aggravated domestic battery once the autopsy confirmed blunt force trauma as the cause of death.
The DuPage County State’s Attorney’s Office confirmed that Wang’s conviction ensures he will face justice for the killing of his wife.
Impact on the Family
Prosecutors acknowledged the emotional toll on Yang’s surviving family and friends. “To Hongyan’s surviving family and friends, I offer my sincerest condolences on their loss and wish them strength as they continue their lives without the love and support she once provided,” the office said in a press release.
Upcoming Court Proceedings
Wang is scheduled to appear on November 12, 2025, for post-trial motions, according to the state’s attorney’s office.
Call to Action
This case highlights the dangers of domestic violence and the importance of accountability. What are your thoughts on the handling of domestic abuse cases in Illinois? Share your opinions and experiences in the comments below.
