In a tragic incident that shocked the Chicago suburbs, 30‑year‑old Eliza Morales, who was five months pregnant, was fatally attacked in her Downers Grove, Illinois, home after a Facebook Marketplace transaction, according to police and court documents. The suspect, 19‑year‑old Nedas Revuckas, has been charged with multiple felonies, including first‑degree murder, in the deaths of Morales and her unborn child.
Authorities say the encounter began with a routine online sale. Morales’ husband, Gabriel Morales, had listed a pickup truck on Facebook Marketplace, and Revuckas responded to the advertisement. What started as a buyer‑seller meeting allegedly turned deadly when Revuckas became unhappy with the condition of the vehicle. Prosecutors allege he became upset and “decided to take his frustration out on Eliza,” leading to a violent confrontation at the family’s apartment.
Police were called to the scene on the evening of Monday, January 26, 2026, after reports of a fire at the apartment complex on Ogden Avenue. First responders discovered Morales inside the residence and she was pronounced dead at the scene. Her unborn child also did not survive the attack.
The DuPage County State’s Attorney’s Office has charged Revuckas with first‑degree murder, armed robbery, aggravated arson, intentional homicide of an unborn child, and animal cruelty. Prosecutors allege that after the attack, Revuckas set the apartment on fire in an apparent attempt to conceal evidence.
In addition to the murder and arson charges, Revuckas also faces a charge related to harming the Morales family’s dog during the incident — a detail that has drawn further public outrage.
Revuckas was taken into custody and appeared in court where a judge ordered he remain held without bond. During his time in detention, officials say he was injured in custody and briefly hospitalized before being returned to the DuPage County Correctional Facility.
Family members and loved ones have expressed deep sorrow at the loss of Morales, describing her as a devoted mother and partner. Morales leaves behind her husband Gabriel and their 2‑year‑old daughter, who was not at home during the attack. A vigil was held in her memory as friends and relatives continue to mourn the devastating loss.
Loved ones also spoke about the devastating impact on the community and their hopes that safety practices for online transactions will be reconsidered in light of the tragedy. They described Morales as a kind and loving person who was excited to welcome her second child and build a future with her family.
Local authorities continue to investigate the circumstances surrounding the murder and urge anyone with information to come forward as the case proceeds through the judicial system. Revuckas is expected to face further hearings as prosecutors prepare for trial.
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