Downers Grove, Illinois – A Facebook Marketplace transaction turned deadly in suburban Chicago after a pregnant woman was allegedly stabbed to death during a scheduled meetup to exchange paperwork for a vehicle. Police say the suspect later confessed to the killing and to setting the victim’s apartment on fire in an apparent attempt to destroy evidence.
Incident Overview
Authorities in Downers Grove say 19-year-old Nedas Revuckas of Westmont, Illinois, was arrested in connection with the violent death of 30-year-old Eliza Morales, who was pregnant at the time. Morales was found dead inside her apartment after a fire broke out following what investigators described as a brutal stabbing.
The case stems from a private vehicle sale arranged through Facebook Marketplace, highlighting growing safety concerns around in-person online transactions.
Timeline of Events
According to police and prosecutors, Morales’ husband had listed the family’s 1994 Ford Ranger for sale online over the weekend. Revuckas responded to the listing and picked up the vehicle the same day.
Authorities said the suspect later contacted the family to arrange a follow-up meeting on Monday to exchange the license plates and complete the bill of sale.
Surveillance footage from the apartment building reportedly shows Revuckas arriving at Morales’ residence at approximately 5:30 p.m. During the interaction, Morales is seen handing him a screwdriver.
Minutes later, video shows Revuckas moving toward the apartment unit holding the screwdriver. At around 5:47 p.m., the apartment door is seen opening and closing.
Details From Police and Prosecutors
Investigators say the footage later captures what appears to be a struggle between Morales and the suspect just before the door slams shut. Shortly afterward, the door handle is seen turning from the inside, suggesting someone may have been attempting to escape.
Roughly 10 minutes later, smoke begins rising from the apartment unit.
First responders arrived on scene at 6:09 p.m. and discovered Morales dead inside the apartment. An autopsy later revealed she had suffered approximately 70 stab wounds to her head and neck.
According to reporting, Revuckas was later located at a residence he shared with his girlfriend after police noticed the Ford Ranger parked in the driveway. During questioning, he initially admitted being at the apartment but claimed he left through the main doors.
Police say investigators then discovered bloody clothing inside the residence, after which Revuckas allegedly confessed to the murder and to starting the fire.
Court Statements and Confession
During court proceedings, prosecutors described the suspect’s alleged motive.
“The defendant indicated he stabbed the victim 10 times. The defendant was upset about the condition of the dark red 1994 Ford Ranger pickup truck that he had purchased and decided to take out his frustration on Eliza,” prosecutors stated in court.
“The defendant got into a fight with Eliza. The defendant said that during the fight, Eliza mentioned that she was pregnant.”
Morales was also the mother of a two-year-old child, who was not present at the apartment during the incident.
Additional Victim: Family Pet
Police also confirmed that the family’s elderly pit bull mix escaped the apartment through a sliding door during the fire. The dog was later found stabbed between the eyes and transported to an animal hospital for treatment.
Charges Filed
Revuckas has been charged with multiple felony offenses, including:
- First Degree Murder – Intent to Cause Death or Great Bodily Harm
- First Degree Murder – Forcible Felony: Armed Robbery
- First Degree Murder – Forcible Felony: Aggravated Arson
- Intentional Homicide of an Unborn Child
- Armed Robbery
- Aggravated Arson
- Aggravated Cruelty to Animals
He is currently being held at the DuPage County Jail.
Community Response and Fundraising
In the aftermath of the killing, a GoFundMe campaign was launched to support Morales’ family. The fundraiser has a goal of $40,000 and has already raised more than $30,000.
“From the bottom of our hearts, thank you to everyone who has donated, shared, and lifted our family up during this unimaginable time,” the family wrote. “Your kindness, prayer, and support have reminded us that even in the darkest moments, compassion still exists.”
Conclusion
The case has sent shockwaves through the Downers Grove community and raised renewed concerns about the risks associated with meeting strangers through online marketplaces. Investigators continue to review evidence as the suspect remains in custody awaiting further court proceedings.
If you have been affected by online marketplace crimes or have safety tips to share, your perspective matters. Share your experiences in the comments below.
