Suspect charged with hate crime, arson for burning cross in Grant Park, Chicago police say

CHICAGO (WLS) -- A suspect is now facing charges, including multiple counts of hate crime and arson, for burning a cross in Grant Park last week.

Merlin Lu, 21, of Chicago has been charged, Chicago police said.

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A Chicago Fire Department spokesperson said firefighters responded to the fire off Columbus and Balbo drives at 2:30 p.m. on June 9. Firefighters extinguished the flames.

Chicago police has released photos of a person of interest seen allegedly fleeing the scene. A week later, police said a person of interest was in custody.

Wednesday evening, police announced Lu was arrested in connection to the crime. He was taken into custody Monday at his residence in the 1400 block of South Halsted by CPD and U.S. Marshals.

Lu has been charged with damaging property, arson, two counts of a hate crime, disorderly conduct, reckless conduct, criminal damage to property, and cross burning to intimidate, police said.

The burning cross is widely considered to be a symbol of racist hatred.

Father Michael Pfleger of St. Sabina Church had offered a $10,000 reward for information leading to a suspect, and the investigation also involved the FBI and Illinois State Police.

Chicago police said Lu will appear in court Thursday.

It's unclear if Lu may eventually face federal charges in addition to these state charges.