Chatham, Chicago stabbing: 7-year-old girl Edimari Hernandez Chacon stabbed to death by woman on S. Cottage Grove Ave.: officials

CHICAGO (WLS) — A 7-year-old girl was fatally stabbed Saturday morning while walking along a sidewalk in Chicago’s Chatham neighborhood, police said. Bystanders who witnessed the attack detained a woman suspected in the stabbing until officers arrived.

The Cook County Medical Examiner’s Office has identified the victim as Edimari Hernandez Chacon.

The attack happened about 11:55 a.m. in the 8600 block of South Cottage Grove Avenue. Police said the girl was walking southbound when an adult woman approached her, displayed a sharp object and stabbed her multiple times in the back.

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The girl was taken to Comer Children’s Hospital, where she was pronounced dead.

Security video from the area appears to show the 7-year-old walking hand-in-hand with a woman before the attack. Additional video appears to show bystanders rushing toward the scene to detain the suspect, who was outside the camera’s view.

“The poor baby had nothing to do with what was going on,” one woman said.

Residents expressed outrage and grief following the attack.

“I just don’t know what this world is coming to … for a seven-year-old like that to be getting stabbed,” resident Denesta Freeman said.

Another woman, who asked that her face not be shown, said the girl’s death hit especially close to home.

“As a mom, I feel hurt! Because my daughter is the same age. I feel hurt! I feel like it was my child.”

Family members later gathered outside Comer Children’s Hospital.

“I never thought it would come to this point. I never did. These kids nowadays are not getting to live their life,” Freeman said.

Police said the suspect was injured as bystanders detained her. She was later taken to a hospital with injuries that were not considered life-threatening and is in police custody.

Charges are pending.

Police have not said whether the girl and the suspect knew each other or whether the stabbing was a random attack. Area Two detectives are investigating a motive.

Ald. Michelle Harris of the 8th Ward released the a statement following the attack:
“I am deeply saddened by the senseless stabbing of a 7 year old child in our neighborhood. My heart goes out to her family, friends, and everyone who is affected by this horrific incident. No child should ever have to experience violence or fear while simply walking down the sidewalk.

“I also want to recognize and thank the bystanders who quickly intervened—helping to detain the suspect and get assistance on the way. Their quick actions may have prevented further harm.

“I urge anyone with information to contact the Chicago Police Department. Our community must come together to support the victim and hold the perpetrator accountable.”

Harris’ statement also directed people with additional information or concerns to call 773-874-3300.

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