Homicide Investigation Update
November 16, 2022
The Belton Police Department is concluding its investigation into the death of John Hill without bringing charges against an individual.
On Dec. 19, 2014, a relative found Mr. Hill deceased on the living room floor of his home in the 800 block of W. Avenue I. An autopsy determined the cause of death to be homicide caused by blunt trauma to the head.
The preference from the moment officers began investigating the case was gather enough evidence to bring murder charges against the person who killed Mr. Hill. Unfortunately, Jeremy Seiter, the man who killed Mr. Hill, cannot be charged with murder because he passed away on May 20, 2022.
Early in the investigation, Mr. Seiter emerged as the main suspect in this case, but charges were never filed due to a lack of sufficient evidence. Following Mr. Seiter’s death, investigators learned that while he was alive, he had independently told multiple people close to him that he was responsible for the death of Mr. Hill. This corroborated the other evidence that the investigation had produced.
“We want the Hill family to receive closure, which is not possible through the court system because Jeremy Seiter has passed away,” Chief Gene Ellis said.
It is tragic to lose a loved one to a violent act. The Hill family has endured nearly eight years of pain and frustration. While the circumstances with this case prevent justice through the courts, it is our hope that this announcement brings them consolation, comfort, and a sense of closure.