Community Corner

Three Arrested in Wilmette Homicide

Three people have been arrested in connection to the murder of Highland Park 20-year-old Colin Nutter.

Benjamin Schenk, 20, of Highwood; Philip Vatamaniuc, 17, of Highland Park; and Michael Coffee, 17, of Highland Park have been charged with first degree murder, according to the Tribune

"Due to a significant amount of evidence and statements acquired by the task force, the Lake County State’s Attorney’s office has approved murder charges against three suspects that were in custody," a statement from the Wilmette Police Department said. "The suspects have been transferred to Lake County authorities for criminal prosecution."

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Nutter was found dead in bushes on Frontage Road in Wilmette on Monday. He died of a gunshot wound to the back of the head, according to the Highland Park Police Department.

A source told the Tribune that Nutter was killed in Highwood. The vehicle Nutter was driving the night of the homicide was previously missing. The car has since been found and is in the custody of the Wilmette Police Department.

The Lake County State's Attorney's office confirmed that a bond hearing had taken place Friday morning for the three suspects.

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