Chicago Woman Charged in Fatal Stabbing of 7-Year-Old in Chatham

Key points

• Eddimar Hernandez-Chacon was stabbed multiple times in the back around 11:30 a.m. Saturday while walking with her sister.
• Shavon Gayden, 48, was charged with first-degree murder and remains hospitalized with a head injury sustained during her detainment.
• Prosecutors stated Gayden had threatened a sales associate at a nearby store moments before the attack.
• Gayden has a criminal history including a 2023 conviction for assaulting a CTA bus driver and a 2025 battery conviction.
• A GoFundMe established by the victim's uncle has raised over $5,000 toward an $18,000 goal for funeral expenses.

Background

This incident follows a pattern of random violence in public spaces, similar to a recent stabbing in Texas involving a Fox News-linked figure. Local officials, including Mayor Brandon Johnson and Alderman Michelle Harris, have expressed grief and called for community support for the victim's family.

How outlets are covering it

Block Club Chicago and the Chicago Tribune emphasize the 'unprovoked' nature of the attack and the bystanders' role in detaining Gayden. The Chicago Sun-Times highlights Gayden's extensive criminal history, including prior assaults. The Guardian notes the lack of a clear motive and the family's grief. All sources agree on the basic facts of the stabbing and the subsequent charges.

Why it matters

The case highlights concerns about public safety and the impact of random violence on children in Chicago neighborhoods. It also raises questions about the management of individuals with prior violent offenses and mental health issues.

What to watch

Shavon Gayden is expected to appear in court for a detention hearing on Wednesday. The family is continuing to raise funds for funeral expenses. Police are investigating the motive behind the attack.