Woman Charged in Killing of Boyfriend, His Parents in Chicago Suburbs

Jenna Strouble accused of murdering her on-and-off partner and his parents in Crete, Illinois.

Apr. 6, 2026 at 1:07pm

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Jenna Strouble, 30, has been charged with nine counts of first-degree murder for allegedly killing her on-and-off boyfriend Jake Lambert and his parents, Stacy and Patrick Forde, in the Chicago suburbs. Prosecutors say Strouble shot Lambert after giving him a massage, then drove to the Forde family home and killed them as well.

Why it matters

The brutal killings have shocked the local community and raised questions about domestic violence, gun violence, and the complex dynamics of intimate partner relationships. The case highlights the need for better resources and intervention to prevent such tragedies.

The details

According to prosecutors, on March 22nd Strouble asked Lambert to go for a drive, then pulled over at a nature preserve and gave him a massage. While massaging him, she allegedly pulled out a Glock pistol she had hidden under the seat and shot Lambert in the back of the head. Strouble then drove to the Forde family home, where she shot and killed Lambert's stepfather Patrick Forde on the front porch, and his mother Stacy Forde inside the house.

  • On March 22nd, Strouble picked up Lambert around 11 PM and drove to the nature preserve.
  • Strouble allegedly shot Lambert in the head while giving him a massage in the car.
  • Strouble then drove to the Forde family home and shot and killed Patrick and Stacy Forde.

The players

Jenna Strouble

A 30-year-old woman charged with nine counts of first-degree murder for the killings of her on-and-off boyfriend and his parents.

Jake Lambert

The 30-year-old father of Strouble's children, who she is accused of murdering.

Stacy Forde

The 54-year-old mother of Jake Lambert, who was shot and killed by Strouble at her home.

Patrick Forde

The 55-year-old stepfather of Jake Lambert, who was shot and killed by Strouble on the front porch of his home.

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What they’re saying

“We must get to the bottom of what led to this senseless tragedy and ensure justice is served.”

— Will County State's Attorney

What’s next

Strouble is due in court on Monday, April 6th, where prosecutors will argue she should remain in jail until trial.

The takeaway

This case highlights the urgent need for better resources and intervention to address domestic violence, as well as the devastating impact it can have on families and communities.