Peoria Standard

Today, Amarian D. Billups-Wilson, 18, was charged with first-degree murder by State’s Attorney Jodi M. Hoos for the death of 18-month-old Clylen Ewing in Peoria, Illinois. The charge comes after an incident where Billups-Wilson allegedly beat the child while babysitting. A judge is set to hear a petition to detain him tomorrow.

Police responded on Sunday evening to a call about an unresponsive child at the 2800 block of W. Wiswall St. in South Peoria. Upon arrival, officers found Clylen with visible injuries and not breathing. He was taken to a local hospital and pronounced dead.

An autopsy indicated that Clylen suffered from multiple injuries, including a lung contusion, lacerations on several organs, rib fractures, and extensive bruising.

Clylen's mother informed police she had left her children with Billups-Wilson the previous night. The other children reportedly witnessed Billups-Wilson hitting Clylen repeatedly, using shoes as weapons, and pushing him down stairs. Their accounts matched the injuries observed.

During questioning by police, Billups-Wilson admitted to striking the child multiple times but claimed he did not realize his strength due to intoxication.

The investigation continues, and authorities urge anyone with information about this case to contact the Peoria Police Department at 309-673-4521.