A Chicago woman, Wendy Tolbert, is facing 14 charges, including first-degree murder, after police accused her of fatally stabbing a child and setting fire to their home in the Logan Square neighborhood on Friday morning. The tragedy has shocked the community, leaving three children injured, one fatally, in a horrific act of violence.
What Happened
At approximately 9:00 a.m. on Friday, July 5, 2025, police responded to a 911 call from a teenage girl reporting a person armed with a knife inside a home in Logan Square. Upon arrival, authorities discovered the house engulfed in flames and three injured children inside.
One child, 4-year-old Jordan Wallace, was stabbed in the stomach and rushed to a nearby hospital, where he was tragically pronounced dead. A second child, an 11-year-old boy, was found with serious stab wounds and is currently being treated at Stroger Hospital. The third victim, a 13-year-old girl, sustained multiple stab wounds to the face, back, and chest. She remains in serious condition.
According to authorities, Tolbert, 45, locked the children inside the home, confiscated their cellphones, and attacked them with a knife before setting the house on fire. It was reported that the 13-year-old girl managed to call 911 while desperately trying to escape. She is believed to have been the one to alert the authorities to the scene.
The fire spread to a neighboring house, causing significant damage, including the collapse of the neighbor’s roof. Two adults and three responding officers were treated for smoke inhalation as a result of the fire.
Who Was Involved
The suspect, Wendy Tolbert, a 45-year-old woman, was arrested and charged with several serious crimes, including first-degree murder, felony aggravated arson, and aggravated battery. It remains unclear whether Tolbert is the mother of the children involved, but some family members have confirmed that she is a relative.
Tolbert was taken to Community First Medical Center for a psychiatric evaluation after her arrest, though it is not clear if she is still being held at the hospital or transferred to jail.
The victims, Jordan Wallace, 4, and the 11-year-old boy, whose names have not been fully disclosed, are being treated for their injuries. The 13-year-old girl, who is currently in critical condition, has been praised for her bravery in calling 911 and seeking help for herself and her siblings.
Police or Witness Statement
The Chicago Police Department has not released a specific motive for the attack but has confirmed the severity of the situation. A police spokesperson stated, “This is a horrific incident, and we are working diligently to investigate all aspects of the case, including the motive behind this tragic act of violence.”
Authorities are still piecing together the events leading to the violent outburst, with no prior reports of domestic issues or concerns about the family. The Department of Child and Family Services confirmed that there were no previous interactions with the family.
In addition to the arrest of Tolbert, authorities have emphasized the quick actions of the 13-year-old girl in calling for help, as well as the bravery of the neighbors who tried to assist and the firefighters who risked their lives to contain the blaze and save the victims.
Public or Community Reaction
The community has been left in shock and disbelief over the tragedy. Neighbors, family members, and local residents have expressed their sorrow and confusion. “I can’t believe something like this happened in our neighborhood,” said one neighbor. “It’s just unimaginable.”
Local authorities are urging residents to come forward with any information that may help with the investigation, though the details of the family’s relationships remain unclear.
Several community members have also started a fundraising campaign to support the victims’ medical expenses and assist the family in their time of need.
Closing
The investigation into this tragic event is ongoing, with authorities working to understand what led to the horrific violence and fire. Wendy Tolbert is facing multiple charges, and her motive remains unclear at this time.
This is a developing story. Stay tuned for updates as more information becomes available. If you have any information related to the case, please contact the Chicago Police Department.
