A resolution hearing scheduled for Aug. 26 in Chippewa Falls, Wisconsin, may determine the outcome of the case against Carson Peters-Berger, 18, who is accused of killing his 10-year-old cousin, Lily Peters. The hearing could prevent a trial that had been anticipated for November.
Chippewa County District Attorney Wade Newell indicated to WEAU that the case will conclude following this hearing, suggesting it will not proceed to a trial. However, Peters-Berger's defense attorney, Michael Cohen, stated to the Milwaukee Journal Sentinel that the proceeding will address issues that will ultimately decide whether a trial occurs. The specific nature of the resolution expected has not yet been disclosed in court records.
Lily Peters was reported missing on the evening of April 24, 2022, after she did not return to her father's home from her aunt's residence. Her bicycle was later found in a wooded area in Chippewa Falls, but an initial police search did not locate her. Authorities were informed the following morning that Lily's body had been discovered near where her bicycle was found. Investigators stated that her injuries were consistent with blunt force trauma, according to the criminal complaint.
At the time of Lily's death, Peters-Berger was 14. During an interview with police, he allegedly stated that he asked Lily to explore off the trail. The complaint details that Peters-Berger admitted to punching Lily in the stomach, causing her to fall, and striking her with a stick in the woods. He also allegedly told investigators that he strangled Lily and attempted to sexually assault her after her death. Following these alleged actions, Peters-Berger reportedly returned home, showered, and placed his clothes in the laundry. Upon learning Lily had been reported missing, he allegedly returned to her body to move it and cover it with leaves.
Peters-Berger faces charges including first-degree intentional homicide, first-degree sexual assault, and first-degree sexual assault of a child under 13 resulting in great bodily harm. Conviction on the most serious charge could lead to a life sentence.
Fox News Digital has reached out to the Chippewa County District Attorney's Office and Peters-Berger's defense attorney for additional comment.