15-Year-Old Charged With Murder After Man Pushed From Moving Chicago CTA Train
CHICAGO — A 15-year-old girl has been charged with murder in the death of a 29-year-old man who authorities say was pushed from a moving Chicago Transit Authority train, a case that has renewed attention on safety across the city’s rail system.
The teen was arrested Sept. 11, four days after the Sept. 7 attack, Chicago police said. She faces felony counts including first-degree murder, mob action, murder by other forcible felony and aggravated battery to a transit employee, according to the department. It was not immediately known whether prosecutors will seek to try her as an adult. The Cook County State’s Attorney’s Office told USA TODAY she was due in juvenile court Sept. 14.
The Cook County Medical Examiner’s Office identified the victim as Kyle T. Bickham. Bickham died from multiple injuries after being struck by a train, spokesperson Meaghan Johnson said. The office ruled his death a homicide.
Police said Bickham was riding a moving CTA train when the 15-year-old and at least two other suspects allegedly used force to push him off. As of Sept. 14, the two other suspects remained at large, police confirmed to USA TODAY. Investigators have not released a possible motive, citing the open investigation.
Bickham’s family said he worked at an Amazon warehouse in Cicero, Illinois, and was on his way home from work when he was attacked. According to police and reports from CBS Chicago and ABC7 Chicago, he fell onto the electrified third rail and was then struck by another train.
“It’s the most hurtful thing that has ever happened,” his father, Christopher Bickham Sr., told ABC7.
On Sept. 13, relatives gathered at the 69th Street station, where police said Bickham was pushed from the train, and pleaded for witnesses and the remaining suspects to contact police.
“I don’t know who else is out there, but I’d like you to turn yourself in,” the victim’s mother, Latanya Bickham, said during a news conference.
A GoFundMe created by Chris Bickham Jr. described Kyle Bickham as a son, brother, uncle, family member and friend “who was loved by so many.” The fundraiser was set up to help pay for funeral expenses.
“He was a light, goofy, kind, caring, and always able to bring laughter to those around him,” the relative wrote. “Our family is asking for help giving Kyle the homegoing he deserves and sending him home to the Lord. Kyle mattered. His light will never be forgotten.”
The killing has added to long-running concerns about violent crime on Chicago’s transit network, where riders and officials have debated how to improve security. It also highlights the legal and emotional complexities that can follow when a juvenile is charged in a high-profile homicide, particularly if prosecutors seek to move the case into adult court.
Natalie Neysa Alund is a senior reporter for USA TODAY. Reach her at [email protected] and follow her on X @nataliealund.