Tragic Loss for Chicago Police
On August 7, 2021, a tragic incident occurred during a traffic stop in the West Englewood neighborhood. Chicago police Officer Ella French, aged 29, was fatally shot. Her partner, Officer Carlos Yañez, was severely injured. The officers had pulled over a vehicle occupied by Emonte Morgan, his brother Eric Morgan, and a woman. Emonte was charged with first-degree murder and two counts of attempted murder of a peace officer. Eric faced charges of aggravated unlawful use of a weapon, unlawful use of a weapon by a felon, and obstructing justice. In 2023, Eric pleaded guilty and was sentenced to seven years. Emonte was convicted the following year and received a life sentence.
Nonprofit started by mother of slain Officer Ella French supports on-duty officers with food and water.
Weather Records
- High temperature: 99 degrees (1918)
- Low temperature: 50 degrees (1994)
- Precipitation: 2.36 inches (2018)
- Snowfall: None
Astronomical Advancement
In 1966, the Benjamin F. Lindheimer Astronomical Research Center opened on Northwestern University’s Evanston campus. This ‘spiderweb-design’ observatory was named after Washington Park Race Track owner Benjamin F. Lindheimer. Unfortunately, it was demolished in 1995, but its telescopes were donated to the Lowell Observatory in Flagstaff, Arizona.
Sports Milestone
On August 7, 2004, Chicago Cubs pitcher Greg Maddux achieved his 300th career victory. This milestone came in a game against the San Francisco Giants, making Maddux the 22nd pitcher to accomplish this feat.
Political Forum
On August 7, 2007, a significant political event took place at Soldier Field. Senators Barack Obama and Hillary Clinton were among the seven Democratic presidential candidates participating in a debate at the AFL-CIO forum. Obama later secured the party’s nomination and became the first Black American president.
Baseball Record
In 2016, Baltimore Orioles’ Manny Machado made history at Chicago’s Guaranteed Rate Field. He became the second player in major league history to hit home runs in the first, second, and third innings of a game. Machado’s efforts produced a career-high seven runs, leading to a victory over the Chicago White Sox.
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