A tragic and horrifying incident unfolded in Chicago’s Logan Square neighborhood on Friday when 45-year-old Wendy Tolbert allegedly attacked her three children, believing they were “possessed by the devil.” The attack left her 4-year-old son dead, while her other children survived but suffered injuries.
Details of the Attack
According to local NBC affiliate WMAQ, Tolbert first targeted her 10-year-old son, stabbing him in the arm while he was playing video games with his 4-year-old sibling. She then turned on the 4-year-old boy, Jordan Wallace, stabbing him more than 30 times, fatally injuring him. Tolbert reportedly went after her 13-year-old daughter as well, who was attempting to call 911 and escape the violence.
The Aftermath and Fire
After the brutal attack, Tolbert allegedly set the family’s house on fire before leaving the scene. Police and firefighters arrived at the house after receiving reports of the fire. They discovered the children inside the home, with one of them heard shouting for help from the basement window. Emergency responders found blood, and the child was pulled to safety. Tragically, Jordan Wallace was found deceased.
Tolbert’s Arrest and Allegations
Tolbert was apprehended at the scene. During her arrest, she allegedly told investigators that she attacked her children because she believed they were “possessed by the devil,” according to WMAQ. She has been charged with one count of first-degree murder, two counts of attempted murder, six counts of felony aggravated arson, and several counts of aggravated battery.
Community Reactions
The community has been shaken by the event. Neighbor Angie Perez spoke with local ABC affiliate WLS, expressing the deep sorrow the incident has caused. “These lives are ruined,” Perez said. “There’s no happiness from here on for them.”
Legal Proceedings
Tolbert faces serious charges, including first-degree murder and multiple counts of attempted murder and arson. The case has devastated not only the immediate family but the entire neighborhood, leaving behind a deep sense of grief and disbelief.
