Man pleads guilty to murder for killing metro-east man during a party

An Alton man pleaded guilty Tuesday to first-degree murder for killing a man during a party at a Wood River home in 2023.

Austin L. Mullins, 22, admitted that he fatally shot Jacob “Jake” Wall, 23, of Wood River on July 24, 2023, according to a news release from Madison County State’s Attorney Tom Haine.

David Fahrenkamp of Edwardsville was listed as an attorney for Mullins. He could not be reached for comment Tuesday.

“Mullins pleaded guilty in exchange for a 40-year sentencing cap,” the news release states. “Prosecutors intend to seek the full 40-year term when Mullins is sentenced later.”

Wall’s family remembered him as a young man who enjoyed the outdoors.

“Jake loved life and could always be found out in nature, whether it was exploring abandoned places, caves or parks, fishing, swimming or just being outside,” according to his obituary posted by Elias, Kallal and Schaaf Funeral Home in Bethalto. “He was all about being healthy and enjoyed working out, boxing and going to the gym.”

Mullins was arrested shortly after the shooting. He remained in the Madison County Jail on Tuesday.

Wood River police received a call at about 4:09 a.m. on July 24, 2023, about a shooting at a home in the 800 block of Tennyson Street.

Wall was transported by ambulance to the Wood River Police Department, where he was transferred to a helicopter. He died at Saint Louis University Hospital shortly after the shooting.

Assistant State’s Attorney Morgan Hudson and Assistant State’s Attorney Lauren Maricle prosecuted the case. Circuit Judge Kyle Napp presided over the plea hearing.