Rockford man charged with first-degree murder in death of 11-year-old child

ROCKFORD, Ill. — A Rockford man has been charged in connection with the 2025 death of an 11-year-old child, according to the Rockford Police Department.

Michael Wilson Jr., 38, has been charged with first-degree murder in the case, officials said.

Arrest and investigation

Rockford Police Sensitive Crime Unit detectives, with the assistance of the Rockford Police Intel Unit and the U.S. Marshals Office, arrested Wilson on Aug. 26, police said.

Police said the suspect and victim were known to each other. The child had been receiving long-term care at a children's rehabilitation center since 2016 due to injuries sustained as an infant, including a severe brain injury.

Cause of death

The child died in August 2025, and the cause of death was determined to be complications of remote head injuries and child abuse, authorities said. The manner of death was listed as homicide.

After a review with the Winnebago County State's Attorney's Office, the charge of first-degree murder was authorized for Wilson.

Pretrial release

Pursuant to pretrial release requirements under Illinois law, Wilson is no longer in custody, according to police.

Police said that, as with any and all investigations, there may be additional charges and arrests.

Anyone with information regarding the case can contact the Rockford Police Department at 815-966-2900, via Facebook @RockfordIllinoisPoliceDepartment, or via X @RockfordPD. To submit an anonymous tip, text "RPDTIP" and the information to 847411, use the Rockford PD App, or call Rockford Area Crime Stoppers at 815-963-7867.