Survivors of 2022 July Fourth parade mass shooting to address gunman before his sentencing

WAUKEGAN, Ill. (AP) — Survivors and relatives of people killed in a 2022 mass shooting at an Independence Day parade in suburban Chicago are set to address the gunman Wednesday at his sentencing hearing.

Robert E. Crimo III, 24, pleaded guilty last month to the shooting that left seven people dead and dozens more injured. His plea change, just moments before opening statements at his trial, came as a shock even after years of unpredictable legal proceedings.

Crimo is certain to spend the rest of his life in prison. Each count of first-degree murder carries a maximum natural life sentence in Illinois. Prosecutors and attorneys for survivors say addressing Crimo is an important step.

“They have been patiently waiting for justice to be served,” said a statement from Romanucci & Blandin, a Chicago-based law firm that represents nearly 50 vi...
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