The arraignment for a 17-year-old suspect in the shooting of a 2-year-old in Chicago’s Lawndale neighborhood has been postponed. Charges haven’t been filed yet, and the Cook County State’s Attorney’s Office is still investigating the incident.
The heartbreaking event took place Thursday afternoon, just after 4 p.m., near 14th and Avers. According to police, the toddler was inside a home when gunfire rang out, striking the child multiple times in the lower body. The child was rushed to Stroger Hospital in critical condition. Thankfully, the 2-year-old is now listed in stable but still critical condition.
The teen, who was arrested, was initially facing charges of obstruction of justice and endangering a child. However, his arraignment was delayed as authorities work to gather more information about the shooting. It’s still unclear how the toddler was shot inside the home, who fired the gun, or what led to the incident. The relationship between the teen and the child is also unknown, and the family has chosen not to speak publicly.
For now, the 17-year-old has been released into the care of his aunt and mother. He will return to court on January 17, 2025, for an update on the case. The judge has mentioned that the severity of the case could change depending on the toddler’s condition.
As the investigation continues, more answers may soon come to light. Stay tuned for updates.
