Grant Park arson suspect identified by Chicago Police
The Chicago Police Department has released two photos of a man who was allegedly seen fleeing the scene where an object was constructed and set ablaze in Grant Park on Tuesday afternoon. The incident, captured on video and widely circulated on social media, has led many to believe that the burning object was a cross.
Despite public speculation, CPD has classified the incident as arson and has refrained from labeling it a hate crime. According to a community alert issued by the department, the man was observed leaving the area where “an object was constructed and lit on fire” in the 600 block of South Columbus Drive around 2:38 p.m. on Tuesday, June 9.
Authorities are urging anyone with information that could assist in identifying the suspect to contact arson investigators at 312-746-7618 or submit an anonymous tip at CPDtip.com using case number JK-288147.
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