WATERLOO, IL — A profound tragedy has shaken the close-knit communities of Monroe County and Prairie Du Rocher, Illinois, following the death of 14-year-old Emma Schultheis, who succumbed to a gunshot wound on Monday, July 21, 2025. The incident, which occurred at a residence in Waterloo, remains under active investigation by local authorities.
At approximately 1:34 p.m., the Monroe County Sheriff’s Department and Monroe County EMS responded to a 911 call reporting a medical emergency at 5925 State Route 3. First responders arrived promptly and found Emma Schultheis, a resident of Prairie Du Rocher, suffering from a gunshot wound. Despite immediate life-saving efforts, including CPR, and her swift transport to a St. Louis-area hospital, Emma was pronounced deceased.
The Monroe County Sheriff’s Department confirmed that a firearm was recovered at the scene, and the Illinois State Police Crime Scene Unit was called to assist with evidence collection. Sheriff Neal Rohlfing clarified that the shooting was not self-inflicted, though further details regarding the circumstances—whether accidental or intentional—have not been disclosed due to the ongoing investigation. Authorities have emphasized that there are no suspects at large and no ongoing threat to the community.
Emma, a vibrant student at Red Bud High School and a member of the Maeystown Clovers 4-H Club, was cherished for her boundless energy and dedication. Known for her involvement in showing livestock at the Monroe County Fair and her achievements as a junior high state-qualifying track athlete, Emma was described by the Red Bud FFA as a “spark of energy” who inspired those around her with her hard work and infectious smile. Her obituary highlights her membership in St. John UCC in Maeystown and her passion for sports and community activities.
Sheriff Rohlfing issued a heartfelt statement, urging the public to respect the privacy of Emma’s family—her parents, David and Amanda Schultheis, and their extended loved ones—as they grieve. “We are aware of unverified information and rumors circulating online,” the Sheriff’s Department noted, imploring the community to refrain from spreading speculation that could impede the investigation or deepen the family’s pain.
The Monroe County Fair, a significant part of Emma’s life, plans to honor her memory on July 24, 2025, at 6 p.m., with an auction of her livestock. The Red Bud FFA invited the community to “fill those bleachers for Emma” to show support for her family, noting that the fair was her “Super Bowl.” A visitation is scheduled for July 28, 2025, from 4 p.m. to 8 p.m. at Quernheim Funeral Home in Waterloo, with additional visitation and a funeral service on July 29, 2025, at St. John UCC in Maeystown, followed by interment at St. John Cemetery in Fults.
Grief counselors are being made available to students and staff at Red Bud High School and Prairie du Rocher School, where Emma’s presence left a lasting impact. The community is grappling with the loss of a young life filled with promise, and plans for a candlelight vigil are expected to be announced soon.
Anyone with information related to the incident is urged to contact the Monroe County Sheriff’s Department at (618) 939-8681. As the investigation continues, Monroe County unites in sorrow, remembrance, and unwavering support for Emma’s family during this unimaginable loss.
