A Chicago man is in custody on multiple felony charges after allegedly killing one woman and sexually assaulting another inside an East Chatham apartment on Thursday. Jerry Powe, 58, went to the 3rd District police station in Greater Grand Crossing and told officers he had killed his girlfriend, according to authorities.

What police say happened on South Ellis Avenue

The alleged crimes took place the morning of Oct. 22 at a residence in the 8100 block of South Ellis Avenue. According to reporting attributed to a police source:

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  • A 28-year-old woman told officers her landlord assaulted her at gunpoint.
  • During the attack, she saw another woman lying motionless on a couch.
  • Officers later found a 36-year-old woman dead inside the home.

The Cook County Medical Examiner's Office determined the 36-year-old died of strangulation. A judge said in court that Powe lived with both women, though how they were connected remains unclear.

What is Jerry Powe charged with?

Powe faces first-degree murder, a second murder count alleging a strong likelihood of death or injury, three counts of aggravated criminal sexual assault involving a weapon, and aggravated kidnapping. Court records show prior convictions stretching back years, including an earlier aggravated criminal sexual assault case that sent him to prison for six years. At a Saturday detention hearing, a judge ordered him held in jail.

What happens next?

Powe is due back in court on Tuesday, Oct. 27. Friends and family of the 36-year-old, a mother of two, have held a vigil and are arranging her funeral. One mourner, Gloria Love, said the victim "didn't deserve it" and that Powe should serve every day of any sentence.

FAQ

Where did the alleged crimes occur?

They took place at a residence in the 8100 block of South Ellis Avenue in Chicago's East Chatham neighborhood.

How was the suspect taken into custody?

Powe walked into a police station and told officers he had killed his girlfriend, according to authorities.