Chicago Suspect in Alleged Hate Crime Used Phone to Search for Synagogues, Gun Store
Shooting of Jewish Man on Way to Synagogue
Authorities have provided new details about a man accused of shooting a 39-year-old Jewish man on his way to a synagogue in Chicago’s West Rogers Park neighborhood last month.
Investigation Reveals Suspect’s Digital Trail
Investigators say the suspect, 22-year-old Sidi Mohamed Abdallahi, used his phone to search for synagogues and Jewish community centers in Chicago, as well as a gun store and firing range, shortly before the attack on October 26.
Suspect’s Motives Revealed
"This shooting is deeply personal to members of our Jewish community, we know that, but this shooting should be personal to everyone across the city," Chicago Police Supt. Larry Snelling said just days after the shooting.
Suspect’s Actions
Abdallahi allegedly approached the victim from behind as he walked to the synagogue and shot him. The victim, who was struck in the shoulder, was hospitalized and later released. When medics responded to render aid to the victim, however, Abdallahi allegedly returned to the scene of the crime and fired multiple shots at first responders from various locations. No officers or paramedics were injured, though an ambulance was struck. Police returned fire, critically injuring Abdallahi.
Arrest and Charges
Abdallahi was arrested about 30 minutes after the initial shooting. Due to his injuries, police couldn’t interview Abdallahi, but announced they did find a digital trail. "Evidence from the offender’s phone indicated he planned this shooting and specifically targeted people of Jewish faith," said Snelling. Foxx said the evidence uncovered during the investigation was enough to support hate crime and terrorism charges.
Charges and Detention
Abdallahi now faces several charges, including one count of terrorism, one count of a hate crime, six counts of attempted first-degree murder, seven counts of aggravated discharge of a firearm at a police officer or firefighter, and one count of aggravated battery with a firearm. A judge has ordered that he remain detained until his trial.
Conclusion
The case highlights the importance of addressing and combating hate crimes, and the need for continued vigilance and support for communities affected by such incidents.
Frequently Asked Questions
- What were the charges filed against Sidi Mohamed Abdallahi?
- He faces one count of terrorism, one count of a hate crime, six counts of attempted first-degree murder, seven counts of aggravated discharge of a firearm at a police officer or firefighter, and one count of aggravated battery with a firearm.
- What evidence did investigators find on the suspect’s phone?
- They found searches for synagogues and Jewish community centers in Chicago, as well as a gun store and firing range, shortly before the attack.
- What was the motive behind the attack?
- Evidence suggests that Abdallahi specifically targeted people of Jewish faith.
- What were the consequences of the attack?
- The victim was hospitalized and later released, but first responders were put in harm’s way, and several were injured.
