Mt. Vernon police arrest 3 in connection with homicide

MT. VERNON, Ill., (KBSI) — Three people have been arrested and charged in connection with a homicide investigation in Mt. Vernon.

Police responded to a residence in the 600 block of S. 15th Street on March 24, 2025, at approximately 5:53 a.m. and discovered the body of Patrick Williamson, 57, with visible signs of injury.

An investigation led by the Mt. Vernon Police Department, with assistance from the Jefferson County Coroner and State’s Attorney, resulted in the identification of three suspects.

Laura Lee Beneway, 60, of Bonnie, Illinois, was charged with two counts of first-degree murder, concealing a homicidal death, and obstructing justice.

Eddie G. Bennett, 67, of Mt. Vernon, was charged with two counts of first-degree murder and one count of first-degree murder related to an act with a high probability of death.

Peter M. Harris, 66, of Mt. Vernon, was charged with two counts of first-degree murder, one count of first-degree murder related to an act with a high probability of death, and obstructing justice.

All three suspects are presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.

The Mt. Vernon Police Department is asking anyone with information related to the investigation to call 618-242-2131 or Crime Stoppers at 618-242-TIPS.