Ashland man Ronald Cobren accused of killing fiancee and her daughters before taking his own life

Ashland man Ronald Cobren has been accused of a horrific crime that has left a small community in shock. Cobren allegedly killed his fiancee and her two daughters before taking his own life in what police are describing as a murder-suicide. The incident occurred on Thursday, December 14, 2023, at two different locations.

The victims in this tragic case have been identified as 19-year-old Autumn Bell, 16-year-old Alaria Bell, and 53-year-old Christina Bell. Autumn Bell was found with a gunshot wound to the stomach at a house in Springfield, where she was declared dead at the scene. Another man, who remains unidentified, was also found at the same location with life-threatening injuries.

Shortly after the initial incident, police received reports of another shooting in a nearby area. When they arrived, they discovered the bodies of Alaria Bell and Christina Bell. According to ABC 7 Chicago, Ronald Cobren, who was engaged to Christina Bell, has been identified as the alleged perpetrator by a man whose identity has not been revealed.

The police have not yet disclosed the details that led them to suspect Ronald Cobren in the shootings. However, they did find his vehicle and performed a traffic stop, only to discover Cobren dead inside the car from an apparent self-inflicted gunshot wound.

Sheriff Devron Ohrn addressed the devastating incident, saying, “Heinous acts of this magnitude rock the core of any community. This strikes additionally hard in small communities such as Cass County and beyond its borders. Cass County is comprised of compassionate, helpful citizens that are always willing to lend a hand.”

Authorities from various police agencies, including Illinois State Police Zone 4 Investigations, Illinois State Police Crime Scene Division, Ashland Police Department, and Beardstown Police Department, have been involved in the investigation. They have stated that no one other than Ronald Cobren was involved in the case.

This tragedy has left the community reeling, and the authorities are working to provide support and resources to those affected. Autopsies of the victims’ bodies are scheduled to be conducted on December 18, 2023, to gather further evidence and information about the incident.

As the investigation continues, the community is urged to come together and support one another during this difficult time. The impact of such a horrific event is far-reaching, and it is essential for everyone to offer kindness, understanding, and remembrance to those affected.

Disclaimer: This article is based on the latest information available at the time of writing and may be subject to change as more details emerge.