Alderman says a bomb shattered his house window as children slept — but police weren’t dispatched until 9 hours later

A disturbing incident occurred in Chicago when an unknown perpetrator set off a bomb outside the home of Alderman Byron Sigcho Lopez in the early hours of a Saturday morning. The explosion shattered a window while the alderman’s three children were sleeping inside. Despite the seriousness of the event, Chicago Police Department dispatch records did not indicate any calls reporting an explosion at the time of the blast. Instead, an initial investigation suggested that the object in question was a firework.

The alderman, representing the 25th Ward, stated that the explosion occurred around 12:45 a.m. near his residence on West 21st Street. In a video shared by Sigcho Lopez, a large firework can be seen detonating at a street corner, causing glass to shatter and a car horn to sound. The alderman’s office issued a statement confirming that the blast was indeed a bomb that had been ignited and detonated outside his home, endangering his children.

According to reports, surveillance footage captured two individuals in an SUV, with one person stepping out to light the explosive device before quickly fleeing the scene. The Chicago Police Department later confirmed that an unknown male offender had placed a suspected firework in the street and set it off, resulting in damage to a nearby residence. Fortunately, no injuries were reported in connection with the incident.

Despite the lack of police response at the time of the explosion, a sergeant and an evidence technician were dispatched to investigate the scene later that morning. A retired bomb investigation specialist noted that targeted attacks on family homes or businesses typically involve the deliberate placement of incendiary devices to convey a threatening message.

In response to the incident, Dion McGill, a Police District Councilor for the Englewood District, condemned the bombing as a political act of violence. McGill emphasized the importance of public safety and denounced any form of intimidation or violence, especially when directed at elected officials and their families. He called for a rejection of political violence and a commitment to resolving differences through dialogue, advocacy, and democratic processes.

As investigations into the incident continue, it remains crucial to await official findings before drawing conclusions about the nature of the attack. McGill urged the public to take the incident seriously and show compassion towards the affected family. The safety and well-being of all residents, regardless of political affiliation, should remain a top priority in ensuring a peaceful and inclusive community.

This article was created based on original reporting and aims to provide unique insights into the incident. Support for independent journalism is essential to uncovering and addressing important issues in our society.