Family Says Grandson Detained In Killing

Police were holding a grandson of an 88-year-old Richton Park man in connection with his stabbing death Sunday in his south suburban home, family members said Tuesday night.

Sim Williams was found dead on the floor of his upstairs bedroom about 12:15 p.m. Sunday in the 22600 block of Amy Drive.

The Cook County Medical Examiner's office said Williams died from multiple stab wounds and ruled his death a homicide.

Richton Park police Chief Vito Mannino was unavailable for comment Tuesday night, and police were not commenting on their investigation.

But friends and family of Williams gathered at the police station at night -- searching for answers.

"It's a sad situation because why would someone hurt gramps, why?" said Myriam Tillman, his granddaughter. "The reason I say the [murderer] had to be crazy is because if you asked grandpa for something, he'd always give it to you."

Family members said police questioned the grandson Monday and Tuesday and he was being held in the police department lockup.

"We're glad somebody is in custody," said Eddie Williams, Sim Williams' son. "I'm not going to rest until it's over. I wish I knew more, but I don't."

Eddie Williams said the teen came under suspicion after he was the only member of the family who did not show up at the police department after the slaying.

A retired construction worker, Sim Williams lived in his Richton Park home since 2000 with his family, including his wife Ethel, who died in January 2008.

Sim Williams' family described him as an easygoing man who loved his family. He had six children, 15 grandchildren and 20 great-grandchildren.

Richton Park police are working with the South Suburban Major Crimes Task Force in the investigation.