An Illinois man is now facing serious charges for allegedly grooming, sexually assaulting, and ultimately murdering a 14-year-old girl.

The Vandalia Police Department reported that Kylie Toberman went missing on the morning of November 14. Her body was tragically discovered later that same afternoon, as covered by FOX 8 Live.

On November 16, Arnold Rivera, aged 43, was taken into custody in relation to Kylie’s death. The following day, he appeared in court for the first time, as reported by CrimeOnline.

Authorities suspect that Rivera and Kylie were traveling together in a vehicle when he allegedly assaulted her. State Attorney Brenda Mathis claims Rivera then strangled her using jumper cables before concealing her body in a tote, which was stashed inside an RV.

The RV was located in Vandalia, behind the home where Kylie resided with her adoptive mother, 65-year-old Donna Toberman. Rivera is Donna’s son, making him Kylie’s step-uncle as reported by KSDK.

Donna Toberman is also facing charges. According to WJBD, she has been charged with unlawful possession of a firearm (four counts).

Court records obtained by FOX News Digital indicated that Rivera has a criminal history that includes dismissed charges of criminal sexual abuse involving a child between the ages of 9 and 16, as well as burglary. The charges were dismissed in exchange for a guilty plea to felony aggravated battery from 2000.

The felony charge resulted in 30 months of probation that ended in March 2023. In 2008, Rivera received 24 months of probation for possession of a stolen vehicle.

Rivera’s estranged wife, Paige Stone, told KDSK how he manipulated her when she was a minor.

Paige Stone said, “I was 14 when I met that man… I was the babysitter. He was married with two kids.”

Meanwhile, Kylie’s biological mother, Megan Zeller, described her daughter as brilliant and sassy, who loved animals and her sisters.

The junior high student had just been deemed “most improved wrestler” by her team.

Kylie’s friend since preschool, Caitlynn Shellenbarger, called the loss of her friend “unimaginable,” saying, “It broke my heart because she was the sweetest, kindest person, and she had so much life left to live. I mean, she was only 14 years old.”

Rivera remains behind bars without bond. His next court appearance is scheduled for November 25.

[Feature Photo: Kylie Toberman/Facebook]