‘Family Feud’ contestant charged with murder of ex-wife

(NewsNation) – A man who appeared on “Family Feud” is charged with the murder of his ex-wife, according to reports.

Timothy Bliefnick, 39, a former 2020 game show contestant, faces charges of first degree murder and home invasion in connection with the death of Rebecca Bliefnick in Quincy, Illinois.

The mother-of-three was found shot dead inside her home along Kentucky Road on February 23. Timothy Bliefnick was arrested on March 13.

As the investigation continues, the Quincy Police Department called Timothy Bliefnick’s arrest a “significant step forward in the pursuit of justice for Rebecca.”

Authorities say Rebecca’s death has shaken the Quincy community.

“This brutal crime has brought the community of Quincy to the brink and our residents live in fear,” the police department said on its Facebook page.

KHQA reports that the couple married in 2009, but were in the process of divorce at the time of Rebecca’s death. The outlet reports that court records related to the Bliefnicks have been removed from the Illinois Public Records website and a judge has ordered they be sealed.

Josh Jones, lead attorney for the Adams County State’s Attorney, said Rebecca’s murder was not a random act of violence, but said it was important the community recognize the death for this that it is: “an act of domestic violence”.

The Illinois Department of Children and Family Services and a Quincy police detective have been in contact with the Bliefnick children.

Quincy Police shared a message for Rebecca’s family: “To Mrs. Bliefnick’s family, nothing we do as a police department will ever bring Rebecca back to you and her three boys. All we can do is use our tools, our talents and all available resources to do you justice. Our thoughts and prayers remain with you.

Timothy Bliefnick is being held on warrant without bond at the Adams County Jail.