‘Family Feud’ contestant charged with murder of wife
Rick Schindler
An Illinois man who once competed Family disputes was arrested on Monday in the murder of his estranged wife – a nurse and mother of three boys – three weeks ago.
“This brutal crime has left the Quincy community on edge and our residents live in fear,” Quincy Police Chief Adam Yates said in a Facebook post after 39-year-old Timothy Bliefnick was accused of killing Becky Bliefnick, 41, fatally to have shot.
“I hope today’s announcement can allay some of those concerns.”
The victim was found dead at her home on February 23 after failing to pick up her children from school.
Within a week, police had issued a search warrant for the home and car of her divorcing husband.
“Given the circumstances, it is not surprising that the search warrant was issued and executed,” said the suspect’s attorney, Casey Schnack Muddy River News at that time.
“My only surprise is that it took so long. It is equally important that QPD conduct such an investigation to rule out Tim OUT as a suspect so that investigative efforts can be expended elsewhere.
Timothy Bliefnick after his arrest.
Quincy Police Department
Bliefnick reportedly attended his wife’s wake but skipped her funeral service because, as he said, he didn’t want to be a distraction.
Authorities did not say Monday what evidence led them to charge Bliefnick. He was held without bail on two counts of first-degree murder and home burglary and was due to appear in court on Tuesday.
“There is still work to be done and the investigation continues, but today’s development is a significant step forward in seeking justice for Rebecca,” Yates said.
In a GoFundMe to raise money for a scholarship on her behalf, Becky Bliefnick was described as a devoted mom.
“Despite the circumstances of her death, she will be remembered for the life she cherished – a life filled with compassion, generosity, faith and a passionate love for her family,” her sister Sarah Reilly wrote.
“She leaves behind three young children and a whole community that loved her dearly. Becky always envisioned working in the medical profession, so it was no surprise when she decided to pursue a career in nursing – her true calling – where she could nurture and comfort people on a daily basis.”
The Bliefnicks had been married since 2009, but after their split, she filed a restraining order against him and his father — and was then placed under a restraining order by her husband, KHQA reported.
‘Family Feud’ contestant Timothy Bliefnick charged with murder of wife Becky
