Seven Children Charged After Brutal Attack on mother adn Son Near chicago School
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A disturbing incident has left a Chicago community reeling after a mother and her nine-year-old son were attacked by a group of children last month. Seven young individuals, ranging in age from 10 to 13, have been charged with misdemeanor battery causing bodily harm, authorities announced tuesday, as an inquiry into the circumstances surrounding the assault continues.
Details of the Attack and Charges
The attack occurred just after 3 p.m. on the 10600 block of South Bensley Avenue, were a 33-year-old woman and her son were approached and “struck multiple times” by a group of offenders. Both victims were transported to a local hospital and initially listed in serious condition.
Those facing charges include three 10-year-old boys, a 10-year-old girl, an 11-year-old girl, a 12-year-old boy, and a 13-year-old girl. Following processing, each child was referred for counseling services and released into the custody of their guardians. Police have confirmed the investigation remains active.
Bullying Allegations and Mother’s Plea
The mother, identified as Corshawnda Hatter, has publicly stated that the attack stemmed from ongoing bullying at Orville Bright Elementary School in the South Deering neighborhood. Speaking outside the school following the incident, Hatter expressed her anguish, stating, “I can’t sleep because I wake up in the middle of the night with that vision in my head of my son calling my name to help him and I couldn’t do nothing for him. that really hurt me the most.”
Hatter also revealed on social media that her daughter was present during the attack, underscoring the trauma experienced by the entire family.
Official Responses and Community Concerns
the incident has prompted strong reactions from local officials and community leaders. State Sen. Willie Preston voiced the sentiment of many, stating, “No mother should be that helpless and be targeted by children inside of her own community.”
Chicago Public Schools (CPS) released a statement emphasizing its commitment to student safety and well-being. The statement read,in part,that CPS is “horrified by the attack” and is “working collaboratively with City departments and agencies to provide support to the victims.” CPS also highlighted its existing protocols for addressing conflicts and grievances, adhering to the Student Code of Conduct.
Chicago Mayor Brandon Johnson condemned the violence, calling it “unacceptable” and vowing to address the root causes. “That type of behavior is unacceptable in our city and we must not normalize that type of senseless violence,” he said in a statement. The Mayor’s office has coordinated with CPS, the Chicago Police Department (CPD), and the Chicago Housing Authority (CHA) to deploy additional resources to the area and provide support to the family. Furthermore, the city is activating community-based organizations focused on youth services and violence prevention to ensure safe passage for students and families.
Looking Ahead: Addressing Youth Violence and School Safety
The attack underscores the urgent need for increased investment in youth services,mental health support within schools,and proactive violence prevention strategies. Mayor Johnson emphasized the critical importance of providing “the necessary resources to our public education system so that every school community has counselors and mental health professionals.” The incident serves as a stark reminder that ensuring the