On Saturday, December 10th, at 6:31 am, Sterling Police Officers were dispatched to the 800 block of West 19th Street in reference to a disturbance. When officers arrived, they found Matthew R. Martinez, 27, of Sterling, outside of the residence and found a female and male victim bleeding from multiple laceration and stab wounds inside the residence. Officers also found an active fire in the attached garage. Officers detained Martinez and rendered aid to the victims until CGH EMS and the Sterling Fire Department arrived.
The Sterling Fire Department extinguished the garage fire and CGH EMS transported the female victim to CGH with non-life-threatening wounds. The male victim was transported to Rockford from CGH. His condition is unknown at this time.
A preliminary investigation revealed Martinez forced entry into the residence and assaulted the female and male victim after starting the garage on fire. The female victim and Martinez had a prior relationship.
Martinez is currently charged with two counts of Aggravated Battery and Home Invasion. Additional charges are pending.
The Sterling Police Department were assisted by CGH EMS, Sterling Fire Department, Illinois State Police Crime Scene, Office of the State Fire Marshal.
The investigation is continuing.
This is believed to be an isolated incident and there is no further threat to the public.
