Body of missing Illinois boy found in Indiana; 3 in custody

Update: The mother of a missing Illinois boy was charged with murder Saturday after the 6-year-old's body was discovered near an abandoned house in northwestern Indiana, authorities said.

Damari Perry of North Chicago was reported missing Wednesday. His body was found in Gary.

Police were initially told that the boy was missing from Skokie, another Chicago suburb, but the investigation turned to Damari's home “after the family's story was contradicted,” the Lake County state's attorney said.

"Our hearts ache over the murder of 6-year-old Damari Perry. ... Prosecutors, investigators, and victim support professionals worked late into the night and into the early morning to make sure we understood this tragic crime now," Eric Rinehart said.

Jannie Perry, 38, was charged with first-degree murder and other crimes. Two other family members also face charges.

It wasn't immediately known if Perry has a lawyer who could comment on the allegations. She was expected to appear in court Sunday.

NORTH CHICAGO, Ill. (AP) — The body of a missing Illinois boy was discovered Saturday in northwestern Indiana, police said.

Damari Perry's body was found near an abandoned house in Gary, police said.

The 6-year-old from North Chicago was reported missing Wednesday.

“Three adult family members believed to be responsible for Damari's death are in police custody. ... There is no threat to the general public,” North Chicago police said.

An autopsy was planned.

Damari was last seen Tuesday when he might have traveled to another Chicago suburb, Skokie, with family members, police said.

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