Bill reintroduced to rename Rockford post office in honor of slain mail carrier Jay Larson

SPRINGFIELD, Ill. (WTVO) — Illinois congressmen have reintroduced a bill that would rename the Rockford Post Office in honor of slain USPS mailman Jay Larson, who was killed in a stabbing spree last year.

The federal bill was re-introduced by Illinois Congressmen Eric Sorensen (D) and Darin LaHood (R) after it failed to advance in the US House last year.

“One year ago today, Jay Larson tragically lost his life serving his Rockford community as a 25-year veteran of the United States Postal Service,” said Sorensen. “Jay was an exemplary public servant, never taking a sick day and working overtime to help his fellow letter carriers finish their routes. He was a fixture of his community and a kind, welcoming face to his many neighbors along the route he delivered mail. I am proud to reintroduce this bipartisan legislation to honor Jay Larson’s decades-long legacy of helping his neighbors and to remind future generations of the positive impact he had on his Rockford community.”  

“Jay Larson embodied the values of a dedicated public servant,” said LaHood. “He cared deeply about the Rockford community through his strong work ethic and compassion for others over his 25 years as a letter carrier for the United States Postal Service. I am proud to co-lead this legislation with Representative Sorensen to dedicate the Harrison Avenue Post Office in Jay’s honor. This will preserve his legacy and serve as a reminder of the positive impact one person can have on an entire community.” 

Larson, a 25-year veteran of the United States Postal Service, was one of four victims of a brutal series of stabbing murders that took place on March 27th, 2024.

Authorities said Christian Soto, 22, attacked Larson in the 2200 block of Winnetka Avenue.

A witness said they saw Soto on top of Larson, punching him in the yard. When the witness went to call 911, Soto saw him and walked over to the house, at which point the witness locked the front door and called police.

Soto returned to his pickup truck, grabbed an orange-handled knife, and stabbed Larson numerous times. He then allegedly got back in the truck, and ran Larson over several times.

Soto has been charged with murder, attempted murder, and home invasion for the deaths of Larson, Jenna Newcomb, Romona and Jacob Schubpach, and injuring 7 others in a horrific daylight killing spree.