Illinois child welfare worker stabbed to death during downstate visit; man charged with murder

Welfare worker Diedre Silas, 36, was conducting a welfare check on children at a home in Thayer, Illinois, on Tuesday when 32-year-old Benjamin Reed stabbed her to death, authorities said.

Investigators said that 32-year-old Benjamin Reed, who lived in the home, faces charges of first-degree murder, aggravated battery and unlawful restraint. 

Authorities arrived at the scene just before 4:30 p.m. and found what appeared to be blood near the door. They forced their way into the house and found the victim dead inside.