On Sunday, April 7, 2019, at 6:24 a.m., the Wheaton Police Department responded to 1340 North Main Street, in response to multiple 911 calls for emergency assistance. Responding officers located the victim and the defendant inside of the apartment.
The victim, A Bawi, was found with several stab wounds and was treated by Wheaton paramedics. He was transported to Good Samaritan Hospital in Downers Grove where he succumbed to his injuries. The defendant, Pi Lat, was arrested at the scene and subsequently charged with one count of First-Degree Murder. He was transported to the DuPage County Jail and is awaiting an appearance before a judge.
“We appreciate the support and patience the community has shown us since yesterday morning. Due to the isolated and contained nature of this crime, initial details were not shared beyond assuring the community there was no additional danger. Limiting the release of information ensures the integrity of the investigation while respecting the victim, the victim’s family, and the criminal justice process. We are thankful for our first responders including Wheaton Police Department, Wheaton Fire Department, the Carol Stream Police Department, members of State’s Attorney Bob Berlin's office, College of DuPage Police Department, Glen Ellyn Police Department, and the DuPage County Major Crimes Task Force, as they worked together over the last 36 hours to bring charges against the defendant" said Wheaton Police Chief Bill Murphy.
For more information, please contact the Wheaton Communications Department at communications@wheaton.il.us 630.260.2190.
Victim: A Bawi
1340 N. Main St., Wheaton, IL 60187
Age 39
Defendant: Pi Lat
1340 N. Main St., Wheaton, IL 60187
Age 38
Notice to Public: The public is reminded that a complaint contains only charges and is not proof of the defendant’s guilt. Constitutionally, a defendant is presumed innocent and is entitled to a fair trial in which it is the government’s burden to prove his or her guilt beyond a reasonable doubt.