An illegal immigrant suspected of shooting a Jewish man multiple times on his way to a Chicago Synagogue is now facing terrorism and hate crime charges. Chicago Police Department Chief Larry Snelling announced the charges against Sidi Mohamed Abdallahi, 22, during a press conference on Thursday.
In addition to the new charges, Abdallahi was already facing a slew of felony charges, including attempted first-degree murder, aggravated discharge of a firearm at a police officer or firefighter, and aggravated battery with a firearm. The incident occurred on October 26 in Chicago’s West Rogers Park neighborhood, where the victim, an Orthodox Jewish man, was targeted while wearing a kippah.
Abdallahi, a Mauritanian illegal immigrant released into the U.S. last year, was identified less than 30 minutes after the shooting. He allegedly shot at responders before being struck by police fire. Abdallahi remains hospitalized, and investigators have been unable to interview him due to his injuries.
Detectives used digital evidence, including information from Abdallahi’s phone, to establish a case indicating that he targeted people of the Jewish faith. Chief Snelling emphasized that the charges were not brought about due to public pressure or media attention, but rather based on gathered evidence and facts.
The Jewish community in Chicago has been deeply affected by this incident, with Chief Snelling stressing that violence rooted in hate and bigotry will not be tolerated. He urged all members of the community to take the shooting personally and stand against such acts of violence.
Despite the challenges posed by Abdallahi’s immigration status and the ongoing investigation, law enforcement officials are committed to pursuing justice in this case. The victim, described as a member of the Jewish community, was shot in the shoulder and is currently recovering.
This incident serves as a reminder of the importance of addressing hate crimes and terrorism, regardless of the perpetrator’s background. The charges against Abdallahi highlight the severity of the crime and the need to hold individuals accountable for their actions. The Jewish community and the city of Chicago as a whole have come together to denounce this act of violence and show support for the victim and his family.
