Over $30K offered for information in teen stabbing

October 30, 2011 (INDIAN HEAD PARK, Ill.) (WLS) -- Police say the reward has been increased for information in the stabbing death of a 14-year-old in southwest suburban Indian Head Park.

As of Sunday afternoon, a $30,500 reward was being offered for information that will lead to the arrest and conviction of the person or persons responsible for the murder of Kelli O'Laughlin, according to the Village of Indian Head Park website. On Saturday, an anonymous resident added $10,000 to the reward.

Police have also set up a tip line at 708-246-4534.

Investigators say it appears the Lyons Township High School freshman was killed when she interrupted a burglary when she got home from school Thursday afternoon.

Despite some reports, police say there is no one in custody.

On Saturday afternoon, authorities confirmed that a man questioned following the slaying of the 14-year-old is being held on a warrant in connection with a separate burglary spree that happened over the summer in the southwestern suburb. While some reports claim the suspect is under investigation in connection with the teen's slaying, Indian Head Police Chief Frank Alonzo tells ABC7 they're unrelated.

"There is somebody in custody but it's for a different incident," Alonzo said.

Detectives from the south suburban Major Crimes Task Force joined the investigation as police released a sketch of a man seen walking near the area after the murder. They want to question him. Investigators were circulating copies of the sketch Friday night to drivers in the area. They also released pictures of gold coins that are similar to the ones that are now missing from the victim's home.

"Maybe somebody tried to pawn these at a pawn shop or tried to turn them in for cash. That's the only new lead at this point," said Indian Head Park Police Chief Frank Alonzo.

Meanwhile, residents mourned the Lyons Township High School freshman.

"Our thoughts and prayers go out to them. It was very, very trying and sad event. We all hugged and teared up," said village trustee and family friend Matthew Walsh.

A funeral for O'Laughlin will be held Friday.

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