Man Googled ‘how to kill someone with a hammer’ before killing trans girlfriend with a hammer: prosecutors

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Chicago Man Googled How to Kill Someone with a Hammer Before Murdering Transgender Woman

A tragic incident unfolded in Chicago as Deandre Bell, a 24-year-old man, stands accused of first-degree murder in the brutal killing of Davonta Curtis, a 31-year-old transgender woman. Prosecutors revealed that Bell had searched online for information on how to kill someone with a hammer before using one to beat Curtis to death. The victim’s body was discovered by her family members inside her apartment on West Lake Street on April 8, sparking shock and horror in the local community.

Bell and Curtis had reportedly been in an on-again-off-again relationship, spending part of Easter Sunday together before the fateful events took place. Surveillance footage captured the pair returning to Curtis’ apartment building, with Bell seen leaving alone in the early hours of the morning following Easter. It was during this time frame that Bell allegedly struck Curtis multiple times in the head with a hammer, resulting in her tragic demise.

Deandre Bell, left, and Davonta Curtis. (Chicago Police Department, Twitter)

Concerned by her absence, Curtis’ sisters made the grim discovery of her lifeless body, partially covered by a sheet. Additionally, her car keys and vehicle were missing from the scene. Police later located Bell driving Curtis’ blue 2009 Hyundai in the same vicinity, leading to his arrest. Consent was given for a search of his belongings, revealing incriminating evidence linking him to the crime.

An autopsy conducted on Curtis confirmed the horrific injuries sustained, with deep lacerations and gashes found on various parts of her head. Prosecutors detailed the discovery of a hammer with suspected blood, along with other items, in Bell’s possession. Furthermore, searches on his phone prior to the murder raised chilling questions about his intentions and actions leading up to the tragic event.

Deandre Bell now faces charges of first-degree murder and possession of a stolen vehicle, with Judge James Murphy III granting the state’s detention request. The motive behind the heinous crime remains unclear as the community mourns the loss of Davonta Curtis, a beloved individual whose life was cut short in a senseless act of violence.

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