An Illinois dad has been arrested after he allegedly killed his daughter while attempting to kill a bird. The dad, David Schultheis, shot at a bird that had made its way indoors. Although his bullet did make contact with the animal, that’s not all that happened: His teenage daughter also became a casualty. Even though the girl’s death is an unfortunate accident, the dad is still facing time in prison.
According to a statement from the Monroe County Sheriff’s Department posted to social media, 34-year-old Schultheis was charged with reckless discharge of a firearm on September 2, 2025. His arrest comes in connection with the death of his 14-year-old daughter, Emma Schultheis.
On July 21, police allege that Schultheis fired a gun in an attempt to shoot a buzzard in a brick building in Waterloo, Illinois. Authorities said his bullet struck the bird and went through it. Sadly, the bullet continued, going through the window and ultimately hitting the teen while she was outside.
“Schultheis inserted only his arm into the room—keeping his head outside the doorway to avoid potential ricochet—before pulling the trigger,” the statement read.
Emergency services were called and showed up quickly. First responders “immediately began life-saving efforts, including CPR.” Emma Schultheis was taken to a St. Louis-area hospital where she was eventually declared dead “despite continued medical intervention,” per the statement.
The sheriff’s department concluded its investigation on August 26. Officials turned over extensive files, including 45 investigative leads to the Monroe County State’s Attorney’s Office.
David Schultheis wasn’t the only one arrested. Karen A. Schwarze, 58, faces charges of concealing a homicide and obstruction of justice.
“It is alleged that Ms. Schwarze knowingly and unlawfully concealed the death of Emma Schultheis, knowing that her death resulted from homicidal means,” the sheriff’s statement explained. She also allegedly hid the gun used by Schultheis to keep him from being arrested.
“Additionally, the investigation revealed that following the execution of search warrants, Ms. Schwarze attempted to influence others not to speak with law enforcement officers during the early stages of the investigation,” the statement continued.
It is unknown what kind of relationship Schwarze had with the girl or her father.
David Schultheis appeared to be an open supporter of guns for personal use and against gun control, and he often posted on his Facebook page about his issues with gun control and politicians who’ve pushed for greater gun regulations.
“There are no words that can adequately express the heartbreak and gravity of this tragic event. The death of a child under any circumstances is profoundly devastating,” the sheriff’s department shared in an update to its statement. “While this incident may have been preventable, our obligation is not to dwell in speculation but to uncover and present the facts with integrity.”
