An Illinois man admitted guilt but stated he was mentally ill for drowning his three children in a bathtub. Jason E. Karels, 36, left a note at the crime scene for his wife, saying, “If I can’t have them neither can you,” according to The Associated Press.
The children's mother, sharing custody with Karels, alerted authorities on June 13, 2022. Police in Round Lake Beach found Bryant Karels, 5, Cassidy Karels, 3, and Gideon Karels, 2, deceased at the Camden Lane residence.
Afterwards, officers located Karels driving on Interstate 57 and 115 Street. Karels initiated a high-speed chase, spanning various highways and multiple police departments, lasting about 17 minutes before crashing off Interstate 80. Upon his capture, Karels admitted responsibility for the children’s deaths and mentioned failed suicide attempts after the incident, captured on officers’ body cameras.
Karels faces a life sentence without parole, set for Feb. 16, 2024. In Illinois, a guilty but mentally ill plea offers improved access to mental health care during incarceration.
Police shared, “Our thoughts remain with the victims’ family, friends, and our community impacted by this tragic event. While nothing can bring back these wonderful children, we hope this resolution brings some closure.
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