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

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

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

The attack happened around 11:55 a.m. in the 8600 block of South Cottage Grove Avenue. Police said the girl was walking south when an adult female approached her, showed her 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 to the scene to arrest the suspect, who was out of the camera’s view.

“The poor baby has nothing to do with what’s happening,” one woman said.

Residents expressed outrage and grief following the attack.

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

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

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

Family members then gathered outside Comer Children’s Hospital.

“I never thought it would get to this point. I never did. These kids today can’t live their lives,” Freeman said.

Police said the suspect was injured when bystanders stopped her. She was then transported to hospital with non-life-threatening injuries and is currently in police custody.

Charges are pending.

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

Ald. Michelle Harris of the 8th District released a statement following the attack:
“I am deeply saddened by the senseless attack on a 7-year-old child in our neighborhood. My thoughts are with his family, friends and everyone affected by this horrific incident. No child should ever have to experience violence or fear by simply walking down the sidewalk.

“I also want to recognize and thank the bystanders who quickly intervened, helping to arrest the suspect and get help along the way. Their quick actions could have prevented further damage.

“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 asked people with additional information or concerns to call 773-874-3300.

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