Man Charged with Fatally Shooting Ex-Girlfriend, Lighting Her House on Fire in West Englewood
Accused of Murder and Arson
A North Lawndale man, Joshua Mims, 37, has been charged with fatally shooting his ex-girlfriend, Racquel Adams, 32, and setting her house on fire in West Englewood last year.
Background of the Incident
According to Cook County prosecutors, shortly after Adams broke off her relationship with Mims and told him to move out of her home, Mims allegedly threatened to break all of her TVs. Later, he argued with her while he was moving out of her home on May 12, 2023.
Surveillance Video
Surveillance video showed Mims leaving Adams’ home in the 6400 block of South Damen Avenue around 10 p.m. and returning shortly after midnight. He was seen leaving the house within 10 minutes, prosecutors said.
Discovery of the Crime
Officers on patrol around 12:40 a.m. noticed Adams’ home on fire. They entered the house and found Adams’ body partially on fire lying in a pool of blood, prosecutors said. She suffered a gunshot wound to the back of her head and was taken to University of Chicago Medical Center, where she was pronounced dead. A shell casing was found at the scene, prosecutors said.
Fire Investigation
Chicago Fire Department officials determined the fire was caused by open flame ignition in four “separate and distinct” areas of the house, prosecutors said.
Arrest and Charges
Mims was arrested Tuesday by Chicago police officers and the U.S. Marshals Great Lakes Regional Fugitive Task Force in the 900 block of South Kedzie Avenue. He is charged with one count each of first-degree murder and aggravated arson.
Court Appearance
A judge ordered him detained during his first court appearance Thursday. His next court date is December 3.
Conclusion
Mims’ alleged actions have left a devastating impact on the family and friends of Racquel Adams. The community is still reeling from the senseless violence and destruction caused by this heinous crime.
FAQs
* What is the charge against Joshua Mims?
+ Mims is charged with one count each of first-degree murder and aggravated arson.
* When did the incident occur?
+ The incident occurred on May 12, 2023.
* Where was the incident located?
+ The incident occurred in the 6400 block of South Damen Avenue in West Englewood.
* What is the current status of Joshua Mims?
+ Mims is currently detained and has a court date scheduled for December 3.
