CHICAGO (WLS) — A woman charged in the stabbing death of 7-year-old girl is due in court Monday.
At last check, Shavon Gayden was still in the hospital. The 48-year-old faces one count of first-degree murder.
Police said Gayden approached seven-year-old Eddimar Hernandez Saturday morning near 86th Street and Cottage Grove Avenue in Chatham and stabbed her multiple times in the back.
Gayden had allegedly gotten into an altercation with staff at a nearby wireless store before the attack.
Surveillance video shows Eddimar walking hand-in-hand with her older sister and other footage then shows bystanders rushing to help.
Police said they held the suspect until officers arrived.
Eddimar died at Comer Children’s Hospital. Sunday, her family returned to the place where she was attacked joined by neighbors and community leaders for an emotional vigil.
They remembered a happy young girl who loved to draw, play with her siblings and wait by the window for her parents to come home.
“We just want Chicago to know, when tragedy happens, it is our jobs as a community to come together and wrap our arms around this family,” Tyrone Muhammad, with Ex-Cons For Community and Social Change, said.
Speaking to ABC7 in Spanish, Eddimar Hernandez’s mother, Estefany Hernandez, called for justice.
“My daughter’s death should not be left like this,” Estefany Hernandez said. “There must be justice for my little girl. She wasn’t bothering anyone.”
Police have not released a motive.
Court records on the suspect show prior attacks on a CTA bus driver and two shelter workers and an arrest warrant after Gayden missed court.
In 2023, she was arrested for attacking a CTA bus driver and sentenced to two years probation.
The next year, records show she violated her probation for assaulting two shelter workers. She was sentenced to court supervision in that case.
Records show Gayden failed to show up to court. A warrant was issued for her arrest, but its unclear if it was executed.
Mayor Brandon Johnson posted the following statement Sunday:
“I am heartbroken by the killing of a 7-year-old Chicago girl who was simply walking down the street with her family. No family should ever have to experience the unimaginable pain of losing a child, and no child should ever have to fear for her life simply walking through her neighborhood. My deepest condolences are with this little girl’s family and loved ones, and the entire Chatham community as we grieve this devastating loss. We are praying for them and for everyone impacted by this horrifying tragedy. The City will continue to work closely with the Chicago Police Department as this investigation moves forward, and we will do everything we can to support this family and community during this unimaginable time.”
Ald. Michelle Harris of the 8th Ward released a statement Saturday following the attack:
“I am deeply saddened by the senseless stabbing of a 7 year old child in our neighborhood. My heart goes out to her family, friends, and everyone who is affected by this horrific incident. No child should ever have to experience violence or fear while simply walking down the sidewalk.
“I also want to recognize and thank the bystanders who quickly intervened—helping to detain the suspect and get assistance on the way. Their quick actions may have prevented further harm.
“I urge anyone with information to contact the Chicago Police Department. Our community must come together to support the victim and hold the perpetrator accountable.”
Harris’ statement also directed people with additional information or concerns to call 773-874-3300.
INTERACTIVE SAFETY TRACKER Track crime and safety in your neighborhood
Copyright © 2026 WLS-TV. All Rights Reserved.