Authorities in Illinois are currently investigating a tragic incident where a 2-year-old boy lost his life due to a stabbing inflicted by his 6-year-old brother.
According to a news release from the police on September 7, Joliet police responded to a residence around 5 p.m. on September 6 after receiving reports of a 2-year-old who had been stabbed.
Upon the officers’ arrival, they discovered the 2-year-old victim suffering from numerous stab wounds. He was transported to a hospital and later declared deceased, as reported by the authorities.
A shocking incident unfolded as a young child used a kitchen knife to harm a toddler in their family room. The distressing scene was discovered by the boy’s mother, who promptly contacted emergency services.
“It’s horrible. It’s heartbreaking. I didn’t sleep a wink last night. Just terrible,” neighbor Danitha Gaines told WBBM. “A very nice family, nice.”
According to police, two adults were present in another room at the time of the stabbing.
“Our community is reeling from this devastating incident as I am unable to come up with a sufficient statement that can adequately express the sorrow and pain we all feel following this heartbreaking event,” Joliet Police Chief Bill Evans said in the release.
A 6-year-old boy has been placed under protective custody and subsequently transferred to the custody of the Department of Children and Family Services.
“I wish to express our thoughts and deepest sympathies to the family and loved ones that have been deeply impacted by such a tragedy,” Evans said. “It is natural to want to search for answers and to seek understanding in the face of such a painful tragedy.”
The name of the toddler has not been released by officials.
Joliet is located approximately 40 miles southwest of Chicago.
Source: Joliet Police Department’s Facebook Page