Boyfriend Sentenced To Prison For 2024 Shooting Death Of Palatine Woman: Police

PALATINE, IL — The boyfriend of a Palatine woman, who he is accused of shooting dead in November 2024, has been sentenced for 27 years following a first-degree murder guilty plea last week. According to Palatine police, Sergio E. Velasquez Fuentes will serve his time in the Illinois Department of Corrections.

As Patch previously reported, police responded to a well-being check at around 11:26 p.m. Nov. 29, 2024 in the 1700 block of N. Hicks Road. Upon arrival, officers found Fatima Lizeth Escalante Matamoros, 42, with a single gunshot wound to the head. She was taken by the Palatine Fire Department to an area hospital, where she was pronounced deceased.

Velasquez Fuentes, 44, of Palatine, was arrested in January of last year, and charged with first-degree murder, as approved by the Cook County State's Attorney's Office.

RELATED: Boyfriend Charged In Shooting Death Of Palatine Woman — Police

The investigation was conducted by the Palatine Police Department with assistance from the Major Case Assistance Team and in close coordination with the Cook County State's Attorney’s Office.

"The Palatine Police Department extends its deepest condolences to the family and loved ones of
Fatima Lizeth Escalante Matamoros," police said in a Wednesday news release update of the case. "The Department remains committed to supporting victims of violence and holding offenders accountable. Anyone experiencing domestic violence or seeking assistance is encouraged to reach out for help."

Police said local resources include WINGS Program, Inc. (24-Hour Crisis Hotline: 847-221-5680) and the Illinois Domestic Violence Hotline at 877-863- 6338. In an emergency, always call 911.

RELATED: Woman Dies From Gunshot Wound To Head In Palatine — Police