Woman Charged With Murder After 7-Year-Old Girl Killed in Chicago

Girl Killed While Walking With Her Sister

A 48-year-old woman has been charged with first-degree murder after a seven-year-old girl was fatally attacked while walking with her older sister in Chicago.

The incident happened on Saturday morning in the city’s Chatham neighborhood. Police said the child, Eddimar Hernandez-Chacon, was walking along a busy street with her 17-year-old sister when the attack occurred.

Bystanders Helped Stop the Suspect

According to police, the woman allegedly approached the children before attacking Eddimar. Several bystanders intervened after the incident and chased the suspect, eventually holding her until officers arrived.

Eddimar was taken to Comer Children’s Hospital, where she was pronounced dead. The suspect, identified as Shavon Gayden, was also taken to hospital and remained there with injuries that were not considered life-threatening.

Police Have Not Announced a Motive

Investigators have not announced a motive for the attack or confirmed whether the woman knew the child or her family.

Authorities are continuing to examine surveillance footage and other evidence as they work to establish exactly what happened before and during the incident.

Family and Neighbours Gather to Remember Eddimar

The girl’s death has left her family and the local community devastated. Relatives and neighbours gathered at a vigil near the location of the attack to remember her.

Family members described Eddimar as a happy child who loved drawing, playing with her siblings and spending time with her family. Her uncle has also helped organise a fundraising campaign to assist with funeral expenses.

Case Moves Toward Court Proceedings

Gayden has been charged with one count of first-degree murder. She remained hospitalized and did not appear at an initial court hearing on Monday. A further hearing has been scheduled as prosecutors continue the case.

The investigation remains ongoing, and authorities have not yet released a possible motive. The allegations against Gayden have not been proven in court.

Source: Associated Press and The Guardian, October 5, 2026.