It was a beautiful Fourth of July in Highland Park, Illinois. Families lined the streets, kids waved tiny American flags, and laughter filled the air. The town’s annual parade had always been a day of pride and joy—until gunfire shattered everything.
On July 4, 2022, 21-year-old Robert E. Crimo III climbed onto a rooftop and opened fire on the crowd below. In just minutes, seven people lost their lives, dozens were injured, and an entire community was left in shock and grief.
For three years, the victims’ families and survivors have waited for justice. Now, they finally have an answer.
Shooter Pleads Guilty, Avoids Trial
When Crimo showed up in court on March 3, 2025, he abruptly altered his plea to guilty. His choice eliminates the possibility of a trial, a protracted court case, and parole. He will be incarcerated for the remainder of his life.
This appeal is a relief to many. Survivors and bereaved relatives would have been made to relive that terrible day in agonizing detail during a trial. However, the wounds still exist despite this guilty plea.
“It Doesn’t Bring My Loved One Back”
Reactions from the victims’ families have been mixed. Some feel a sense of justice, while others say no sentence will ever undo the pain.
“We’ve waited three years for this, and it still doesn’t feel real,” said one victim’s relative. “It doesn’t bring my loved one back, but at least he can’t hurt anyone else.”
Survivors of the attack have also spoken out, sharing their struggles with physical injuries, PTSD, and the emotional scars that remain long after the shooting. Many say they still feel uneasy in crowds, and some have avoided attending large events altogether.
Shooter’s Father Also Held Responsible
This case also raised difficult questions about parental responsibility. Crimo’s father, Robert Crimo Jr., was charged with reckless conduct after helping his son obtain a gun license despite warning signs. He later pleaded guilty and served 60 days in jail.
This rare conviction sparked debate about how much accountability parents should bear when their children commit violent crimes. Some believe the father got off too easy, while others argue he never could have predicted what his son would do.
Highland Park P
ushes Forward—But the Pain Remains
Crimo’s sentencing is set for April 23, 2025, where he will likely receive multiple life sentences.
Meanwhile, Highland Park is still trying to move forward. The town has brought back its Fourth of July parade, but with tighter security and a moment of silence to honor the victims. Families visit the memorial, leaving flowers and messages of love.
For many, healing will take a lifetime. But with this guilty plea, they can at least close one painful chapter and begin writing a new one—one focused on remembrance, resilience, and hope.
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