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Pekin Today
By the People, for the People
Suspect Charged Nearly a Decade After Teen's Remains Found
Keith Brackett faces multiple counts of first-degree murder in the 2016 disappearance of 13-year-old Robert Bee.
Apr. 11, 2026 at 11:41pm
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Forensic evidence, including rope and tape, tied the suspect to the crime scene years after a teen's disappearance.Pekin TodayA suspect named Keith Brackett was arrested and charged with multiple counts of first-degree murder in connection with the 2016 disappearance and death of 13-year-old Robert Bee in Pekin, Illinois. Bee's remains were found behind a house owned by Brackett's aunt in 2017, and evidence including rope and tape linked Brackett to the crime scene.
Why it matters
This case highlights the challenges of cold cases and the importance of persistent investigations, even years after a tragic incident. The arrest brings some closure to Bee's family after nearly a decade of uncertainty, while also raising questions about the justice system's ability to hold suspects accountable for long-unsolved crimes.
The details
According to police, Brackett was friends with the 13-year-old victim Robert Bee, despite the age difference. Bee went missing on November 18, 2016, and his mother reported him missing the next day. Brackett was allegedly the last person to see Bee alive, as the two had been 'partying' together the night Bee disappeared. Brackett later claimed to have searched for Bee but heard no reply, then left town with a friend. Bee's remains were found behind a house owned by Brackett's aunt in July 2017. Evidence including rope and tape linked Brackett to the crime scene, and digital data allegedly showed Brackett had been in the area multiple times between Bee's disappearance and the discovery of the remains. An autopsy determined Bee's cause of death was homicidal violence, likely due to asphyxiation.
- Robert Bee went missing on November 18, 2016.
- Bee's remains were found behind a house in July 2017.
- Brackett was arrested and charged on April 11, 2026, nearly a decade after Bee's disappearance.
The players
Keith Brackett
A suspect who was charged with multiple counts of first-degree murder in the 2016 disappearance and death of 13-year-old Robert Bee.
Robert Bee
A 13-year-old boy who went missing in 2016 and whose remains were found behind a house a year later.
Lisa Bee
The mother of Robert Bee, who reported her son missing the day after he disappeared.
What’s next
Brackett is currently in custody and will face trial for the charges of first-degree murder. The judge will determine whether he should be granted bail or remain in jail during the legal proceedings.
The takeaway
This case highlights the importance of persistent investigations and the challenges of solving cold cases, even years after a tragic incident. The arrest brings some closure to the victim's family, but also raises questions about the justice system's ability to hold suspects accountable for long-unsolved crimes.
