Springfield, IL (CAPITOL CITY NOW) – The man authorities believe is responsible for the 2023 death of local activist Emma Shafer — one that got the attention of current Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem against the family’s wishes — has been arrested in Mexico.
Calixto is accused of stabbing Shafer, 24, multiple times at a home near 8th and Clay Streets July 23, 2023
Shafer, according to a 2023 WTAX News story, was involved with the Faith Coalition for the Common Good, worked for the Illinois House of Representatives and Contact Ministries, and was an intern for Downtown Springfield, Inc., and U.S. Sen. Tammy Duckworth. She was well-known in the community.
Milhiser’s office says they will work with federal authorities to make sure Calixto will be extradited back to Springfield. There is no word on when that might be, nor when there may be a court appearance. A 2023 warrant charges Calixto with First-Degree Murder, and Aggravated Domestic Battery.
“The Sangamon County State’s Attorney’s Office, Springfield Police Department, and U.S. Marshals Service thank and acknowledge the U.S. Department of Justice Office of International Affairs, U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement, and the U.S. Attorney’s Offices for the Central and Southern Districts of Illinois for their assistance in this case,” said a county news release.
