Probable Cause Found for Hamilton Teen to Stand Trial for Murder

Probable cause was found Tuesday for a Hancock County man to stand trial for the shooting death of a LaHarpe woman on New Year’s Day.

At a preliminary hearing, Judge David Vancil ruled that there is probable cause for 17 year old Antonio Sanchez to be bound over for trial on three counts of first degree murder and one count of aggravated battery with a weapon.

Vancil also ruled that Sanchez is fit to stand trial in the case.

Sanchez is alleged to have fatally shot 19 year old Madison Finch during a party at a home in LaHarpe.

Under Illinois law, 17 year olds charged with first degree murder are automatically tried in adult criminal court.

A trial date for Sanchez was set for July 9th.