Man Shoots Neighbor Dead For Using A Leaf Blower In His Own Yard

Man Shoots Neighbor Dead For Using A Leaf Blower In His Own Yard William Martys Obituary | Ettore Lacchei

An Illinois man was fatally shot by his neighbor for using a leaf blower in his own yard. Ettore Lacchei, 79, reportedly killed 59-year-old William Martys by shooting him in the head after the pair argued on April 12, according to the Lake County Sheriff’s Office. While authorities rushed the victim to Advocate Condell Medical Center in Libertyville, he was pronounced dead shortly after.

Following an investigation, authorities discovered that Ettore Lacchei had “various perceived grievances with Martys” leading up to the shooting. Police condemned the “senseless” killing and charged Lacchei with two counts of first-degree murder. The gun used in the crime was found near his property line.

Sheriff John Idleburg released a statement following the arrest, offering condolences to William Martys’ loved ones. “The members of our Criminal Investigations Division have been working around the clock to bring Mr. Martys’ murderer to justice, and I am happy Mr. Martys’ family can begin the closure and healing process,” he said, per NY Post.

Martys’ death notice praised his positive attitude and the happiness he brought to the lives of everyone he knew. “He strived to create happy events and opportunities in life while making sure the ones around him were happy as well. If you were William’s friend, you were his friend for life — he would be there no matter the circumstance,” the obituary read. “He did not hate many things, but he did hate stupid people who couldn’t open their minds to new thoughts and ideas in life.”

Ettore Lacchei was well known in the area for causing drama with his neighbors, with other residents pointing out his numerous run-ins with people in the area. In fact, neighbor JR McCarty told ABC7 Chicago that this wasn’t the first time Lacchei had pulled a gun on Martys.

“No one deserves anything like that and it’s just kind of crazy to think that someone can just break like that over just a simple argument that can be fixed just talking,” he said.

Jennifer Still is a writer and editor with more than 10 years of experience. The managing editor of Bolde, she has bylines in Vanity Fair, Business Insider, The New York Times, Glamour, Bon Appetit, and many more. You can follow her on Twitter @jenniferlstill
close-link
close-link