On June 18, 2017, Shirley Ervin, 69, was found stabbed to death in her North Austin, Chicago, home alongside her husband, Johnnie Ervin. Both victims were located on the kitchen floor and pronounced dead at the scene; Shirley had a fatal stab wound to the chest while her husband suffered multiple stab wounds.

Their son, Dexter Barnes, allegedly attacked the couple; he was charged with two counts of first-degree murder and held without bond. Court documents noted Barnes had a criminal history that included prior aggravated battery charges and described episodes of erratic behavior. Shirley Ervin is reported to have had dementia, a detail that underscores her vulnerability in this domestic attack.

No clear motive has been reported. If anyone knew Shirley or the family, or has information about what led to this attack, please share details with investigators.