WATERLOO, IL — A heartbreaking tragedy has struck the small communities of Monroe County and Prairie Du Rocher, Illinois, as authorities confirm the death of 14-year-old Emma Schultheis, who was fatally shot in an incident currently under active investigation.
On Monday, July 21, 2025, at approximately 1:34 p.m., the Monroe County Sheriff’s Department, along with Monroe County EMS, was dispatched to a residence located at 5925 State Route 3 in Waterloo following a 911 call reporting a medical emergency involving a juvenile.
First responders arrived within minutes and found Emma unresponsive at the scene. Life-saving measures were immediately initiated, including CPR. Despite the rapid and heroic efforts of EMS personnel and law enforcement, Emma was later pronounced dead at a St. Louis-area hospital.
The Monroe County Sheriff’s Department has confirmed that Emma died from a gunshot wound. A firearm was recovered and secured at the scene. The Illinois State Police Crime Scene Unit responded shortly after to assist local authorities in collecting and processing forensic evidence.
As the investigation continues, officials have released minimal information, citing the sensitive nature of the case and the young age of the victim. However, law enforcement has made clear that there is no threat to the public, and no suspects are at large. Authorities have not indicated whether the shooting was accidental or intentional, and no arrests or charges have been announced as of this writing.
Emma Schultheis, a bright and beloved young girl from Prairie Du Rocher, is being remembered by her family, friends, and community members as a kind-hearted soul with a promising future. Her sudden and tragic death has cast a long shadow of sorrow across both her hometown and the broader Monroe County area.
In a public statement, Sheriff Neal Rohlfing expressed his department’s condolences and requested compassion and patience from the public as the investigation continues.
“We respectfully request that the public allow time and space for the grieving process and honor the privacy of those affected by this tragedy,” the statement read.
The Sheriff’s Department also addressed the growing spread of rumors and unverified claims on social media.
“We are aware of unverified information and speculation circulating online. We strongly urge the public to refrain from sharing these claims, as misinformation not only hampers the integrity of our investigation but can also cause further emotional distress to the grieving family and loved ones.”
Counselors and grief support teams are reportedly being made available to Emma’s classmates and teachers in the local school district, where she was known and loved by many.
As investigators work to piece together what led to this devastating event, the community is left in mourning—shocked by the sudden loss of a child whose life had only just begun. A full report is expected to be released at the conclusion of the investigation.
In the meantime, Monroe County residents and beyond are joining together in grief, remembrance, and support for Emma’s family as they navigate unimaginable pain. A candlelight vigil is expected to be announced in the coming days to honor her memory.
Anyone with information related to the case is encouraged to contact the Monroe County Sheriff’s Department.
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