Investigation Uncovers Surprising Role in Romeoville Family Slayings

It has been months since investigators uncovered a gruesome scene at the Romeoville, Illinois home of Alberto Rolon, Zoraida Bartolomei, and their two children. Now, police have released an update on their investigation that reveals a surprising new role played by Ermalinda Palomo, the woman initially deemed a person of interest following the slayings.

The tragedy unfolded on September 17th when police were called to the Romeoville home to conduct a well-being check. There, officers discovered four people shot dead, including two adults and two children, along with three dogs. Nathaniel Huey Jr. was identified as the suspect and was found shot dead following a police pursuit and fiery crash in Catoosa, Oklahoma. Palomo, Huey Jr.’s girlfriend, was also found shot and later died at an area hospital.

According to police, the investigation revealed that one of the victims, Bartolomei, had a relationship with Huey Jr. Furthermore, investigators have now determined that Palomo had prior knowledge of Huey Jr.’s intent to commit the murders, and was involved in the planning. Digital evidence showed that Palomo drove the vehicle from her home in Streamwood, Illinois to the Romeoville home at the time of the murders. Huey Jr. was seen exiting and re-entering the vehicle from the passenger side, according to police.

The family of Palomo initially believed she was kidnapped and had nothing to do with the murders, but this new development has revealed otherwise. In a statement following the update, the family expressed their condolences to the Rolon/Bartolomei family and said they will continue to work with law enforcement to find the answers.

Though Palomo’s role in the tragedy has been determined, questions remain as additional forensic evidence is pending analysis. Romeoville police have confirmed that there is no evidence of additional suspects, and have promised to release further information when the investigation is complete.

This tragic story has captured the attention of many around the nation, and has generated an outpouring of grief during this holiday season and beyond. Though it may be difficult to find a silver lining in the midst of such a tragedy, the update has offered a glimpse of closure for the families involved.