Overview
- A wooden cross about six feet tall was seen burning in Grant Park near South Columbus Drive north of Balbo Drive on Tuesday, June 9, and Chicago Fire Department crews extinguished the blaze with no injuries or major property damage reported.
- Chicago Police opened an arson investigation, released surveillance images of a person seen leaving the scene, and asked anyone with information to contact the CPD Arson Section or submit an anonymous tip using reference RD # JK288147.
- Witnesses captured video showing the cross leaning against a tree and reported seeing a person who quickened their pace as cars approached, and that footage circulated widely on social media.
- Community and faith leaders condemned the act as a potent symbol of racial intimidation linked to the Ku Klux Klan, and the Faith Community of Saint Sabina announced a $10,000 reward for information leading to an arrest.
- Authorities say motive has not been established so the case remains categorized as arson for now, investigators are reviewing park and street surveillance that could identify suspects, and officials warn the act could be prosecuted as a hate crime if evidence shows intent to intimidate.