Chicago Police Release Photo in Grant Park Cross Burning, as $10,000 Reward Offered
Updated
Updated · WLS-TV · Jun 10
Chicago Police Release Photo in Grant Park Cross Burning, as $10,000 Reward Offered
3 articles · Updated · WLS-TV · Jun 10
Summary
Chicago police published a photo of a person of interest after a cross was set ablaze in Grant Park around 2:30 p.m. Tuesday near Columbus and Balbo drives.
Firefighters extinguished the fire, and police said they are investigating it as arson; authorities have not said whether they have video showing the act itself.
A mother and daughter driving by recorded the burning cross, a symbol widely associated with racist terror and white supremacy, prompting condemnation from city, faith and civil-rights leaders.
The FBI said it is reviewing the case as a potential bias-motivated incident, while Rev. Michael Pfleger's Saint Sabina community offered $10,000 for information leading to an arrest.
How can modern forensics prove hateful intent beyond the physical evidence of a fire?
With leading anti-hate groups under investigation, who now reliably defines and tracks extremist threats?
When does a hate crime become terrorism, and how does the label change the official response?
Hate Crime in Grant Park: Chicago Unites After June 9, 2026 Cross Burning Incident
Overview
On June 9, 2026, a wooden cross was set on fire in Chicago's Grant Park, an act captured on video and quickly condemned by city leaders and the community. Police launched an immediate investigation, but no arrests had been made by the following day. The incident sparked outrage and calls for justice, with a local church offering a $10,000 reward for information. City officials emphasized the need to treat the act as a hate crime, highlighting its historical significance and the importance of unity as the community prepared for Juneteenth celebrations. The investigation remains ongoing, with authorities urging public cooperation.