A teenager dressed as a clown had been terrorizing residents in East St. Louis, Illinois, but it was the death of 78-year-old John Wesley Allen — killed by multiple stab wounds — that led police to arrest him on Monday, August 3rd.
The St. Clair County Medical Examiner’s Office confirmed that the man died from multiple stab wounds.
The 15-year-old had not been identified as a suspect until he appeared on a Ring doorbell camera, staring directly into the lens while wearing a clown costume and saying: “I have a gift for you.” In some instances, the phrase varied to “I’m looking for you.”
According to neighbors, the teen was going door to door, peering through windows, and carrying a large knife. Prosecutors are seeking to try him as an adult. However, authorities have yet to establish a motive and have not confirmed whether the alleged attacker and the victim knew each other.
Pretty creepy, a teen in East St. Louis Illinois was taken into custody dressed as a clown and creeping on homes. Also being investigated for homicide pic.twitter.com/BQBbRtxPgt
— Rob V (@RobV59) August 6, 2026
