Illinois Father Charged After 14-Year-Old Daughter Killed by Stray Bullet While He Tried Shooting a Bird
Waterloo, Illinois – A heartbreaking incident in Monroe County has left a family and community reeling after authorities say a father accidentally killed his teenage daughter while trying to shoot a bird. The case, which has since led to criminal charges, highlights the dangers of reckless firearm use and the devastating consequences of one miscalculated decision.
Tragic Shooting in Waterloo
On July 21, 2025, investigators say 34-year-old David A. Schultheis was attempting to remove a bird that had entered a brick building in Waterloo, Illinois. Rather than calling animal control or waiting for the bird to leave, Schultheis allegedly fired a handgun into the building.
According to the Monroe County Sheriff’s Department, Schultheis extended only his arm into the doorway while keeping his head outside the room to avoid ricochet. The single shot struck the bird, exited through a window, and tragically hit 14-year-old Emma Schultheis, who was standing outside.
Emergency Response Could Not Save the Teen
According to People, Emergency crews were called to the scene immediately after the shooting. First responders performed CPR and other life-saving measures on Emma before transporting her to a hospital in the St. Louis area. Despite their efforts, the teenager was pronounced dead.
The sheriff’s department described the death as profoundly devastating, stating:
“There are no words that can adequately express the heartbreak and gravity of this tragic event. The death of a child under any circumstances is profoundly devastating.”
Criminal Charges Against Father and Second Suspect
Following a weeks-long investigation, prosecutors filed charges on September 2. Schultheis is charged with reckless discharge of a firearm, a felony offense under Illinois law.
Authorities also charged 58-year-old Karen A. Schwarze with concealing a homicide and obstruction of justice. While officials have not publicly explained her role, court filings suggest she may have attempted to help hide or misrepresent details of the case.
The case was handed to the Monroe County State’s Attorney’s Office on August 26, leading to the formal charges. Schultheis voluntarily surrendered to the Monroe County Jail, was processed, and later released pending further hearings. Schwarze is expected to turn herself in voluntarily in the near future.
The Legal Perspective
Legal experts note that a charge of reckless discharge means prosecutors believe Schultheis acted with disregard for safety, even if he did not intend to harm his daughter. Under Illinois law, reckless discharge of a firearm is often charged when someone fires a weapon in a way that poses a clear risk to others.
The involvement of Schwarze raises further questions about whether anyone tried to cover up the shooting or alter evidence. Prosecutors emphasized their duty is to present facts and hold those involved accountable, not speculate about intent.
Community in Mourning
News of Emma’s death has deeply affected Waterloo and surrounding communities. Many neighbors have expressed shock that such a tragic event could happen during what was described as a routine day.
Emma’s death also underscores broader concerns about gun safety and responsible firearm use. Advocates argue that incidents like this reinforce the need for stricter precautions when handling firearms, especially around children and in residential areas.
The sheriff’s department stressed the importance of transparency as the case moves forward, stating:
“While this incident may have been preventable, our obligation is not to dwell in speculation but to uncover and present the facts with integrity.”
What Comes Next
Both Schultheis and Schwarze are scheduled to appear in upcoming court proceedings. At this time, it is unclear whether either has entered a plea or retained defense attorneys.
As the investigation continues, prosecutors are expected to present more details about Schwarze’s involvement and whether additional charges could follow. Meanwhile, Emma’s family and community are left grieving the loss of a bright 14-year-old whose life ended far too soon.
What do you think about the charges in this case? Should prosecutors have pursued stronger counts given the tragic outcome? Share your thoughts in the comments at cheapnailsalonsnearme.com.