Hailey
Chicago police are investigating a heartbreaking case involving a deadly stabbing and subsequent fire that left one child dead and others critically injured.
The incident unfolded in the Logan Square neighborhood on the morning of Independence Day.
Horrific Attack Unfolds Inside Logan Square Home
Authorities report that a 45-year-old woman allegedly stabbed three children inside a home before setting it ablaze.
The violence erupted shortly after 9 a.m. on July 4, when officers initially responded to a medical emergency at the residence.
Upon arrival, police encountered a working house fire that was concealing a gruesome scene inside.
Thick smoke was seen rising from the property, alarming neighbors and emergency responders alike.
Police Discover Bloody Scene as Fire Rages
As first responders worked to manage the fire, disturbing details began to emerge. Officers could hear a child calling for help from a basement window.
“I got this child yelling for help out the basement window,” one officer reported. “We’re trying to get her out. I do see blood.”
Inside, the children were discovered with multiple stab wounds. The Cook County Medical Examiner’s Office later identified the deceased as 4-year-old Jordan Wallace, who had sustained a fatal stab wound to the chest. He was pronounced dead at the hospital.
Two Other Children Suffer Serious Injuries
In addition to Jordan, two other children were severely wounded:
- A 13-year-old girl suffered critical injuries, with stab wounds to her face, chest, and back.
- A 10-year-old boy received a stab wound to his right arm.
All surviving victims were transported to area hospitals for emergency care.
Neighbors React in Shock and Sorrow
The Logan Square community was left devastated by the tragedy, especially given the timing on what should have been a day of celebration.
“It was devastating. You never want to hear that anyone’s life is taken, especially a child,” said neighbor Angie Perez.
“It’s sad because today is a day of celebration,” added Juan Miranda, another resident. “It’s sad.”
Fire Spreads to Neighboring Home
The fire, which started inside the initial home, quickly spread to an adjacent house, damaging its roof and sending two residents to the hospital for smoke inhalation.
Additionally, three police officers required treatment for exposure to heavy smoke.
Suspect in Custody, Motive Under Investigation
The woman alleged to have committed the stabbings and started the fire was taken into police custody at the scene.
Authorities have described the incident as domestic in nature, though they have not yet confirmed the relationship between the woman and the children involved.
Community Left Reeling in Aftermath
The impact of the tragedy continues to ripple through the neighborhood, leaving residents mourning a life lost and others forever changed.
“These lives are ruined, you know,” said Perez. “There’s no happiness from here on for them. Any kind of tragedy, it trumps any kind of happiness in the future.”
This heartbreaking incident on July 4 has left a deep scar on the Logan Square community. While the suspect is now in custody, the emotional and physical toll on the victims and neighbors will take far longer to heal.
Police continue their investigation to determine the full details behind this shocking act of violence.