Mental Illness Leads to Tragic Murder: Bartlett Man Sentenced for Killing 93-Year-Old Mother
In a heartbreaking turn of events, Edward Mitzelfeld, a 69-year-old man from Bartlett, was recently sentenced to 27 years in prison for the murder of his 93-year-old mother, Frances Kelly. The tragedy unfolded in their shared home on May 29, 2019, when Mitzelfeld fatally stabbed his mother multiple times with a kitchen knife, causing fatal injuries that led to her death. The gruesome nature of the crime shocked the community and left a lasting impact on all involved.
The Trial and Verdict
After a seven-day bench trial, Mitzelfeld was found guilty of first-degree murder and subsequently indicted in April. The prosecution presented compelling evidence that painted a clear picture of the heinous act committed by the defendant. The judge, Daniel Guerin of DuPage County, delivered a harsh sentence reflecting the severity of the crime and the loss suffered by the victim’s family.
A Tragic End to a Longstanding Relationship
The relationship between Mitzelfeld and his mother, Frances Kelly, was once filled with love, support, and friendship. However, the devastating events of that fateful day irreparably shattered the bond they shared, leaving behind a legacy of pain and grief. The aftermath of the tragedy has weighed heavily on both the Mitzelfeld and Kelly families for the past five years, as they grapple with the loss of a beloved matriarch and the harsh reality of her untimely demise.
A Hope for Closure and Healing
As the legal proceedings come to a close with Mitzelfeld’s sentencing, State Attorney Robert Berlin expressed his deepest sympathies for the families affected by this senseless act of violence. While the wounds may never fully heal, there is hope that the sentence will bring some measure of closure to those left behind. As the memory of Frances Kelly is cherished and honored, may her surviving family and friends find solace in the love and memories they shared with her, carrying her legacy in their hearts for years to come.