Arraignment delayed for 17-year-old suspect in shooting that injured 2-year-old in Lawndale

CHICAGO (WLS) -- The arraignment for a teen suspect in a shooting that critically injured a 2-year-old Thursday afternoon has been delayed and charges have not yet been filed, the Cook County State's Attorney's Office siad.

The incident happened near 14th and Avers in the city's Lawndale neighborhood just after 4 p.m. Thursday.

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Chicago police said the toddler was inside a home when he was struck by bullets multiple times. He suffered multiple gunshot wounds to his lower body, and was taken to Stroger Hospital in critical condition.

A 17-year-old boy was to appear in court on a felony charge of Obstruct Justice/Destroy Evidence and a misdemeanor count of Cause Child to be Endangered, police said Friday.

But his arraignment was delayed as the State's Attorney's Office said they are still working with police on the investigation into the shooting, and asked for more time before moving forward with the case.

Instead, the 17-year-old was released from custody to his aunt and mother Friday afternoon. He has not yet been charged.

Questions continue to linger about how the toddler was shot inside of a residence in the multi-unit building in the first place. It is still unclear who pulled the trigger or what led up to the shooting.

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Investigators have not said what the relationship between the teen and toddler is, and family members of the teen did not want to speak on camera.

The 2-year-oldis in stable but critical condition.

The judge said in court the severity of the case could change depending on if the toddler survives the gunshot wounds. The teen is due back in court on Jan. 17.

Statement from the Cook County State's Attorney's Office
The minor was arrested by police regarding this incident and the case was referred to juvenile court. At this time, the matter is a continuing investigation and no charges have been filed. Today the court released the minor from custody pending the investigation and continued the matter to Jan 17, 2025 for status.

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