The Tragic Mu-rder of Lily Peters
On April 24, 2022, the peaceful city of Chippewa Falls, Wisconsin, lost its innocence in one of the most heartbreaking child murders in the state’s recent history.
Iliana “Lily” Peters, a bright, loving 10-year-old girl, left her home on a simple bike ride to visit her aunt — a route she had taken many times before. She never made it back.
What was supposed to be a joyful family visit turned into every parent’s worst nightmare. Lily’s disappearance triggered an urgent search by law enforcement, volunteers, and neighbors who desperately hoped to bring the little girl home safely.
The next morning, on April 25, 2022, the community’s hopes were shattered when Lily’s body was discovered in a wooded area near a creek trail, not far from where her bicycle was found. The news devastated the close-knit town. Residents who once felt safe walking their neighborhoods were left in shock and disbelief.
The Horrific Details
According to the criminal complaint, Lily was brutally assaulted, sexually assaulted, and murdered. The suspect, who was just 14 years old at the time, allegedly confessed to police. He told investigators he intended to rape and kill Lily. After the crime, he reportedly returned to the scene to hide her body by covering it with leaves.
The suspect was later identified as Carson Peters-Berger (referred to as C.P.-B. in early court documents due to his age).
Justice and the Long Road Ahead
Peters-Berger was arrested on April 26, 2022, and charged with:
- First-degree intentional homicide
- First-degree sexual assault (resulting in great bodily harm)
- First-degree sexual assault of a child under 13
The case has seen significant legal developments over the years:
- In January 2024, a judge ruled he would be tried as an adult.
- In August 2025, the court granted a change of venue due to the extensive publicity in Chippewa County.
- As of 2026, his trial is scheduled for November 2026.
The brutal nature of the crime and the young age of both victim and perpetrator have sparked intense public debate about juvenile justice, child safety, and mental health.
A Community in Mourning
Lily Peters was remembered by those who knew her as a happy, energetic girl who loved life. Her death sent ripples of grief throughout Wisconsin and beyond. Vigils were held, flowers and teddy bears were placed at the trail where she was found, and her name became a rallying cry for stronger child protection measures.
Her family has endured unimaginable pain. In the years since her murder, they have asked for privacy while the legal process continues. The case also led to important conversations about community safety and how quickly a peaceful evening walk or bike ride can turn tragic.
Lily’s Legacy
Though her life was cut tragically short, Lily’s memory continues to live on. Her story serves as a painful reminder that evil can exist even in the safest-looking communities — and that we must remain vigilant in protecting our children.
To Lily’s family: Your daughter was loved by so many, even by those who never had the chance to meet her. Her smile, her spirit, and her innocence will never be forgotten.
Lily Peters
April 24, 2022
Forever 10 🕊️