Arrest in Springfield homicide investigation, sheriff says

SPRINGFIELD, Ill (WCIA) – The Sangamon County Sheriff’s Office and District Attorney’s Office have announced an arrest in connection with a homicide in Springfield that occurred over the weekend.

Sheriff Jack Campbell and District Attorney John Milhiser said Brandon L. Berner, 23, was identified Saturday as a suspect in the murder of Michael Newton. On Monday, an arrest warrant was issued for Berner on three counts of first-degree murder.

At about 10:12 p.m. later that day, officials said Berner turned himself in to Springfield police. Sheriff’s deputies took him to the Sangamon County Jail where he awaits a detention hearing and arraignment. Both are scheduled for Wednesday afternoon.

The Sheriff’s Office continues to investigate Newton’s murder with assistance from the Sangamon County District Attorney’s Office and Coroner’s Office.