Marvin Wells: Chicago man arrested for murdering pastor who fed and helped him over the years

Marvin Wells is charged with first-degree murder, home invasion, robbery, receiving or possessing a stolen vehicle, and drug possession
UPDATED SEP 6, 2023
Marvin Wells was later found in a crashed stolen car with Marisol Berrios’ purse after the killing (Chicago Police Department and Facebook/Pastora Marisol Berrios)
Marvin Wells was later found in a crashed stolen car with Marisol Berrios’ purse after the killing (Chicago Police Department and Facebook/Pastora Marisol Berrios)

ILLINOIS, CHICAGO: A Chicago man has been named as the suspect in the murder of a pastor who was tragically found beaten to death in a home invasion and “senseless robbery” over the weekend.

Marvin Wells, 59, is accused of killing Marisol Berrios on early Saturday morning, September 2. 

The perpetrator allegedly broke into Berrios' West Garfield Park residence and was later found in a crashed stolen car with Berrios’ purse after the killing, the Chicago Police Department said.

At least one of the victim's friends said that Berrios fed and tried to help the man who is now accused of being the prime suspect in the crime. 

What did the victim Marisol Berrios' friend say?

“When I saw his face, my heart was broken because this was someone she fed and even given money too. Marisol would say, ‘Honey, I know they are addicts, they just need a chance, and they just need something to do,'” the victim's friend Leatisha Bailey told local Fox affiliate WFLD.

ABC affiliate WLS reported that Berrios’ youngest sister was the one who found her loved one dead.

Another sister, Patricia Berrios, referred to the suspect as “trash” in that report.

“We need her here. We needed her by us,” Patricia reportedly said, adding, “She’s no longer here anymore because of that trash.”



 

Marvin Wells has been booked several times since 2015

According to Chicago Police Department arrest records, the accused has been booked a number of times since 2015.

The cases include criminal trespass, drug possession, and theft, the records state, but it is now clear how they were disposed. 

As per records, Wells was arrested at 5.31 am on Saturday, September 2, for murdering Berrios.

He is charged with first-degree murder, home invasion, robbery, receiving or possessing a stolen vehicle, and drug possession.

A GoFundMe campaign has been set in memory of Marisol Berrios

A GoFundMe campaign started in “loving memory” of Berrios said that funds are meant to “provide a proper farewell for this incredible woman,” described as a “daughter, sister, aunt, godmother and pastora.”

Berrios was “tragically taken from us during a senseless robbery,” the post said.

“Marisol was not just a beloved family member but also a dedicated pastor who spent her life spreading love, hope, and compassion. She touched countless lives through her faith, inspiring sermons, and unwavering commitment to helping those in need. Her strong, soulful spirit resonated with everyone she met," it added.

The pastor's visitation services have been scheduled for Sunday, September 10. 

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