7-Year-Old Girl Fatally Stabbed by Stranger on Chicago Sidewalk
A 48-year-old woman has been charged with first-degree murder in the unprovoked attack.
A seven-year-old girl was fatally stabbed by a stranger while walking on a Chicago sidewalk with her older sister on Saturday morning, authorities reported. The suspect, identified as 48-year-old Shavon Gayden, allegedly approached the girl and stabbed her multiple times in the back, according to police.
A bystander intervened, chasing Gayden and reportedly knocking her unconscious. A crowd gathered around the victim, identified as Edi Mari Paola Hernandez Chacon, as she lay bleeding on the street. She was transported to Comer Children's Hospital, where she succumbed to her injuries.
Gayden was arrested at the scene and charged with first-degree murder. Police have stated that a motive for the attack is currently unknown, and the investigation is ongoing. Court records indicate Gayden has prior arrests dating back to 2016, including charges for domestic battery, aggravated battery of a transit employee, and aggravated assault of a peace officer.
Edi Mari's mother, Estefany Hernandez, expressed her grief and called for justice, stating, "My daughter's death should not be left like this... She wasn't bothering anyone." A vigil was held for Edi Mari the day after the incident, with community members gathering at the intersection where the attack occurred.
Alderwoman Michelle Harris of Chicago's 8th Ward released a statement expressing deep sadness and commending the bystanders for their swift intervention. Chicago Mayor Brandon Johnson also offered his condolences to the victim's family and the Chatham community, describing the event as a "devastating loss."