EDWARDSVILLE, IL — Madison County State’s Attorney Tom Haine announced Tuesday that Miko D. Martin, 29, of St. Louis, has been charged with two counts of first-degree murder following a fatal crash on July 3, 2025, in Wood River.
The charges stem from a high-speed police chase during which Martin allegedly drove recklessly, violated traffic laws, and attempted to evade officers. His vehicle collided at the intersection of Illinois 143 and Illinois 3 with another vehicle carrying George “Randy” Julian, 66, and his wife Donna M. Julian, 68, both of Alton. The couple died at the scene.
The murder charges allege Martin knew his actions posed a strong probability of death or great bodily harm.
“Our heart goes out to the friends and family of the Julians as they face this sudden and devastating loss,” said State’s Attorney Haine. “Running from the police is a deliberate choice that can result in irreversible loss. Those who endanger innocent lives must be held fully accountable.”
In addition to the murder charges, Martin faces several felony counts including:
Possession of a firearm by a repeat felony offender (Class X)
Felon in possession of a weapon (Class 2)
Two counts of reckless homicide (Class 2)
Unlawful possession of a stolen firearm (Class 2)
Three counts of aggravated fleeing or attempting to elude a peace officer (Class 4)
The Illinois State Police led the investigation at Wood River Police’s request, with assistance from the Madison County Coroner’s Office.
Martin, currently on parole in Missouri, is subject to a petition to deny pretrial release, arguing he poses a threat to public safety and should remain in custody until trial.
These charges are based on probable cause, and Martin is presumed innocent unless proven guilty in a court of law.
