ROCKFORD, Illinois, March 28: Rockford, Illinois, was gripped by tragedy on Wednesday afternoon as a stabbing rampage left four people dead and seven others injured across multiple areas, according to authorities. A suspect is currently in custody.

The victims of the incident included a 15-year-old girl, a 63-year-old woman, a 49-year-old man, and a 22-year-old man. Five others sustained serious injuries and were rushed to local hospitals, as detailed in a news release by the Rockford Police Department.

Michelle Marcomb, a spokesperson for the Rockford police, informed CNN that five people were injured within the city limits of Rockford, while two others were wounded in Winnebago County.

Rockford Police Chief Carla Redd addressed the media at a Wednesday news conference, revealing that the department was managing multiple crime scenes and was in the process of notifying families. She noted the collaborative effort involving federal, city, and county officials in responding to the unfolding tragedy. Rockford, situated approximately 90 miles west of Chicago, found itself at the center of this shocking event.

The incident began with a call for medical assistance received by the police dispatch center at 1:14 p.m. Additional calls prompted police response to multiple addresses in the vicinity of Holmes Street, Winnetka Drive, and Cleveland Avenue. The suspect, identified as a 22-year-old man, was apprehended by 1:35 p.m., according to authorities.

Winnebago County Sheriff Gary Caruana disclosed that county officials were alerted to a home invasion on "Florence and Eggleston" after 1:00 p.m. A young lady managed to flee from the assailant but sustained stab wounds to her hands and face. She is currently hospitalized and in serious condition. Additionally, a Good Samaritan who intervened to help her also suffered stab wounds but is reportedly in stable condition.

Chief Redd stated that the motive behind the attacks remains unclear, and authorities do not believe there are any other suspects at large.

While not all victims suffered stab wounds, authorities did not specify the causes of death or injuries for the others. Among the deceased victims was reportedly a mailman, according to the sheriff.

The investigation is described as "very active and multi-level," involving multiple agencies and complex dynamics. Residents are urged to check their surveillance footage for any pertinent information and to provide tips to law enforcement, including through the Rockford Area Crime Stoppers.

Expressing profound sorrow, Rockford Mayor Tom McNamara assured the community of support services available, including counselors at Flinn Middle School to assist those affected by the tragedy.

"As a dad, a son, a husband, the Mayor, and a Rockford supporter, my heart is breaking for those who have lost their lives, their families, and our community," Mayor McNamara wrote in a Facebook post, reflecting the anguish felt throughout Rockford in the wake of this senseless violence.