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Skokie Police Classify Oct. 7 Park Assault on Jewish Kids as Hate Crime

Investigators say the case is complete with limited details released because the subjects are minors.

Overview

  • Police said a teen discharged a gel-blaster toy gun during an Oct. 7 confrontation at Shawnee Park after antisemitic language was directed at a group of Jewish children.
  • One child reported being hit in the leg by a gel pellet as the incident moved from the park onto a nearby street.
  • Investigators identified the teen alleged to have fired the gel blaster and interviewed all known minors involved as well as several adult witnesses.
  • Reports that an adult arrived with a real firearm were investigated and deemed not credible, according to the police statement.
  • The incident was documented and shared with Skokie’s Human Relations Commission, as parents and local Jewish groups press for accountability and explore legal options.