Chicago Mayor Brandon Johnson expressed deep sorrow following the fatal stabbing of a 7-year-old girl on the city’s South Side. The child, identified as Edi Mari Hernandez Chacon, was attacked while walking with her family.
The incident occurred around 11:55 a.m. on Saturday, in the 8600 block of South Cottage Grove Avenue. According to the Chicago Police Department, an adult woman approached Chacon and stabbed her multiple times in the back.
Chacon was rushed to Comer Children’s Hospital, where she was later pronounced dead. The Cook County Medical Examiner’s office confirmed that the cause of death was multiple stab wounds, classifying the manner of death as homicide.
Witnesses at the scene detained the suspect until police arrived. The woman sustained non-life-threatening injuries during the detention and is currently in police custody.
The unprovoked attack has left local residents and city leaders in shock. In a heartfelt statement on social media, Mayor Johnson said no family should ever endure such a tragedy. “I am heartbroken by the killing of a 7-year-old Chicago girl,” Johnson stated. “No child should have to fear for her life simply walking through her neighborhood.” He assured continued support for the victim’s family and pledged to pursue justice.
Security footage appeared to show Chacon walking hand-in-hand with a woman just moments before the attack. Additional video captured bystanders intervening and restraining the suspect.
Residents confronted with the news expressed disbelief and sorrow. “The poor baby had nothing to do with what was going on,” one woman remarked to a local news outlet.
Denesta Freeman, a resident, expressed her distress. “I just don’t know what this world is coming to,” she said.
Another local mother shared how the incident affected her personally, noting that her daughter is the same age as the victim. “As a mom, I feel hurt! Because my daughter is the same age,” she shared.
Family members gathered outside the hospital where Chacon was pronounced dead, showing solidarity and grief in light of the tragedy.
Ongoing Investigation
Authorities have yet to reveal the suspect’s identity or announce any charges. No motive has been disclosed, and the case remains under investigation by CPD’s Area Two detectives. City leaders continue to call for community support for the grieving family.