A Chicago woman is facing multiple felony charges following a horrifying incident in the city’s Logan Square neighborhood that left a young child dead, two others critically injured, and a home engulfed in flames.
Authorities say 45-year-old Wendy Tolbert has been charged with first-degree murder, attempted murder, and arson, among other serious offenses. The disturbing series of events unfolded on Friday near the intersection of Palmer Street and Lawndale Avenue.
According to police, first responders were called to the scene following reports of a violent domestic disturbance and a residential fire. Upon arrival, they encountered a horrifying scene—three children suffering from stab wounds and the home ablaze.
Tragically, a four-year-old boy, later identified by the Cook County Medical Examiner’s Office as Jordan Wallace, was pronounced dead at the scene from multiple stab wounds.
The other two children, whose ages have not yet been released, were rushed to a nearby hospital, where they remain in critical condition. Police allege that Wendy Tolbert, now in custody, was responsible for the stabbings and for setting the home on fire.
Authorities have not publicly disclosed the motive behind the attack or confirmed her specific relationship to the victims, although officials described the case as “domestic in nature,” indicating that Tolbert had some connection to the children or the household.
The community is reeling from the shocking act of violence. Neighbors described the incident as “heartbreaking” and “deeply unsettling,” particularly because it involved such young and vulnerable victims.
“I just can’t believe something like this happened here,” one local resident said. “These were innocent children. It’s devastating.” The Chicago Fire Department worked quickly to contain the blaze, which had begun spreading rapidly through the residence.
Firefighters were able to extinguish the fire and assist in rescuing the surviving children before transporting them for emergency medical care. Investigators later confirmed that the fire was deliberately set, and arson charges were subsequently added against Tolbert.
Chicago Police have not commented on the mental state of the suspect or whether she has a prior criminal record. A full investigation is ongoing, and authorities are working to piece together the events leading up to the attack.
In the meantime, the community and local organizations are rallying around the surviving victims and their family. Vigils are being planned in memory of Jordan Wallace, whose life was tragically cut short. Tributes have begun to appear on social media, with friends and community members expressing sorrow and disbelief at the senseless loss.
“This little boy had his whole life ahead of him,” one person wrote. “No child deserves this. We’re praying for the other two children to pull through.”
As Tolbert awaits her next court appearance, prosecutors are preparing to pursue the case with the full weight of the law. The charges against her reflect the severity of the violence, and officials say they are committed to seeking justice for Jordan and his siblings.
Further updates will be provided as more information becomes available.
