What to Know
On May 13, 2026, police responded to a domestic disturbance call at a Jackson County, Illinois, home and found Deborah Snider and her 8-year-old son, Leland “Lee” Arnett, badly injured. Both were airlifted to a hospital in St. Louis. Lee died from his injuries. Snider remains in critical condition. Her boyfriend, Marcus Moultrie, who had publicly referred to Snider as his “love” on Facebook, now faces a first-degree murder charge.
Moultrie allegedly showed no mercy to his girlfriend or her son.
According to court documents obtained by KFVS, when officers arrived, they found Snider unconscious on the floor and Lee nearby with a serious headwound. It was reportedly a horrific scene for law enforcement.
“This is especially heinous, and it’s disturbing,” Jackson County State’s Attorney Marsha L. Cascio-Hale said in court. “I just want to commend Jackson County Sheriff’s deputies. They did an amazing job, and they are working on this case diligently. And we are ready to partner with them, as we always do, in terms of prosecution.”
Neighbor Kate Rennison told WSIL the couple allegedly had problems in the past, but nothing like what happened that fateful night.
“It’s always shocking to realize that somebody that lives that close to you, something like that, I guess,” Rennison said.
Lee fought for his life but tragically passed away.
Snider’s family shared an update with KFVS regarding Lee’s death.
“It is with profound heartbreak that we share that Leland has passed away from the injuries he suffered during this tragic act of violence. Deborah remains in critical condition as she continues to fight for her life. The siblings’ lives completely uprooted,” the family announced.
The community banded together for Lee’s family.
A GoFundMe created to help with Lee’s final expenses and Snider’s medical bills raised more than $27,000 thus far. DeSoto Grade School partnered with a local business to create a frog keychain to honor their lost student.
“While many are aware, the news of losing a precious student hits harder than anything in our profession. We will have multiple social workers in the building tomorrow morning to help with all student needs. We are without words and the sadness of this event is immense. We thank our community greatly with the support you have already shown,” the school shared on Facebook.
Moultrie now faces a murder charge and possibly more
Moultrie currently faces a first-degree murder charge, with additional charges possible depending on Snider’s recovery. For Lee’s family, the legal process is only part of what lies ahead.
“Our family asks for continued prayers for Deborah, for Leland, and for everyone who loved him.”
Lee was 8 years old. He died trying to protect his mother.
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