Robert Crimo III, accused of a fatal mass shooting at a Fourth of July parade in Highland Park, Illinois, withdrew from a proposed plea deal during a dramatic court hearing.

The deal, which involved pleading guilty to seven murder counts and 48 counts of aggravated battery in exchange for a life sentence and the dismissal of other charges, fell through when Crimo, brought into the courtroom in a wheelchair, did not respond to the judge’s inquiry.

After a recess requested by his attorneys, Crimo ultimately declined the plea deal, prompting the judge to tentatively set a trial date for February 25, 2025, CNN has reported.

Victims’ family members expressed frustration and disappointment outside the court, with Leah Sundheim, daughter of victim Jacquelyn Sundheim, voicing her desire for closure before the upcoming second anniversary of the tragedy.

Crimo, who had previously pleaded not guilty to multiple counts of first-degree murder, attempted murder, and aggravated battery, now faces the possibility of life in prison if convicted, as Illinois does not have the death penalty.

Written by B.C. Begley