Skokie Illinois Police Classify Gel Blaster Teen Attack as Antisemitic Hate Crime

Authorities in Skokie, Illinois have classified a violent incident involving teenagers at Shawnee Park as an antisemitic hate crime. On October 7, two groups of youths aged 13 to 15 clashed, with one group reportedly using antisemitic slurs while chasing the other and firing a gel blaster toy gun, striking a teen in the leg. The police identified the alleged teen responsible for firing the gel blaster and concluded their investigation, but did not disclose further details due to the minors' involvement. Despite rumors, reports of an adult responding with a real gun were found to be false. The Skokie Police Department and local officials, including Mayor Ann Tennes, have emphasized the community's commitment to standing against hate and ensuring safety and inclusion. The case will be reviewed by Skokie's Human Relations Commission to address the bias and violence involved.