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15-Year-Old Charged in Fatal Pushing From Chicago Red Line Train

Video evidence showing three people push the rider onto the electrified third rail has intensified scrutiny of transit safety in Chicago.

Overview

  • Police say 29-year-old Kyle Bickham was pushed from a moving CTA Red Line car near 69th Street on Sept. 7 and fell onto the electrified third rail before being struck by an oncoming train.
  • An internal police memo and CCTV reported by local media reportedly show a side door opened and three people forcing Bickham from the car, prompting investigators to revise an initial finding that he had jumped.
  • Officers arrested a 15-year-old girl on Friday and charged her with first-degree murder, mob action and related felonies; she was ordered held at a juvenile detention hearing and the case is expected to remain in juvenile court.
  • Police say the arrested teen is one of three alleged assailants but have not publicly identified or arrested the other two people and are seeking witnesses and tips.
  • Bickham’s family has launched a GoFundMe and called for answers, and officials and riders are pressing the CTA and the new regional transit authority for clearer camera, door and platform safety measures.