Man accused of killing seven at an Independence Day parade pleads not guilty

Robert E. Crimo III, who is accused of killing seven people and wounding over a dozen more after opening fire at an Independence Day parade, is facing 117 felony counts in the attack, including 21 counts of first-degree murder, 48 counts of attempted murder, and 48 counts of aggravated battery.

During the brief hearing, Judge Mark Levitt set Crimo’s bond at $10 million. If convicted, Crimo could face life in prison.

The shooting occurred on July 3 as the parade was winding down and people were beginning to leave the area. Witnesses described a chaotic scene as gunfire rang out and people fled in panic. The investigation into the shooting is ongoing.

Dressed in a orange jumpsuit and wearing a face mask, 21-year-old Marcel Crimo entered his plea during a 10-minute arraignment in Lake County court. Judge Victoria Rossetti set his next court date for September 28th.

Crimo is accused of opening fire on a crowd of people during a 4th of July parade in the Chicago suburb of Highland Park. He faces seven counts of first-degree murder, as well as four counts of attempted first-degree murder. If convicted, he could be sentenced to life in prison.

Prosecutors have said that they will seek the death penalty in the case. Crimo’s attorney has not indicated whether he will mount a mental health defense.

The shooting rampage occurred just days after another mass shooting in Chicago’s Englewood neighborhood left 12 people dead and dozens more wounded. That incident reignited a debate about gun violence in the city, with many calling for stricter regulations on firearms.