A Chicago Man’s Disturbing Internet Searches Revealed in Murder and Dismemberment Case

A Chicago man, Deparris Slaughter, is facing charges for the murder and dismemberment of his 68-year-old roommate, Michael Lipford. Prosecutors revealed that Slaughter performed a series of internet searches related to murder, dismemberment, and removing forensic evidence before firefighters discovered Lipford’s remains in a burning South Side home.

Slaughter allegedly shot Lipford inside the home they shared on South Kirkland before setting fire to the building. Firefighters responding to the blaze found Lipford’s naked and dismembered body in the basement hallway. His arms were discovered in a garbage bag next to his body, with his right leg nearby and his left leg partly removed. Despite the burns on his remains, the medical examiner determined that Lipford died from a gunshot wound to the neck before the burning and dismemberment occurred.

Investigators found two reciprocating saws, gloves, and other items at the murder scene, with evidence of the fire starting in multiple locations, including where the saws were found. Gasoline was detected in the charred remnants, further supporting the prosecution’s case.

Prosecutor Mike Pekara detailed Slaughter’s activities leading up to the fire, including renting a U-Haul van, purchasing a dolly, buying ammonia, and acquiring a Pontiac vehicle. Surveillance footage and phone records placed Slaughter at the scene before the fire was reported, linking him to the crime.

Authorities stopped Slaughter driving the newly purchased Pontiac, where they found a gas can matching evidence from the crime scene. A firearm recovered from Slaughter was ballistically linked to the bullet found in Lipford’s body. Additionally, Slaughter’s phone contained incriminating internet searches related to the murder and dismemberment, further solidifying the case against him.

Slaughter is facing charges of first-degree murder, residential arson, dismembering a human body, and concealing a homicidal death. He has been ordered detained pending trial by Judge Susana Ortiz.

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