by Chicago, Illinois — Outrage continues to rise across the city after a 33-year-old mother and her 9-year-old son were violently attacked by a group of schoolchildren near Orville T. Bright Elementary School on the Far South Side.
The disturbing incident, captured in a viral video circulating widely on social media, has prompted demands for accountability, community action, and improved school safety measures.
Mother and Son Attacked Near Local Elementary School
According to reports from local outlets including NBC Chicago, Corshawnda Hatter was walking with her son and young daughter on Monday afternoon when a group of children began following them. The group soon became aggressive, hitting, shoving, and dragging both mother and child.
Video footage shows the boy clinging to his mother while several kids strike them repeatedly.
Hatter described the terrifying scene, telling reporters that she tried to move her children across the street to avoid confrontation.
“They followed us all the way there, they hit my son first, dragged me in the grass and pulled my baby’s hair. I’m trying to get justice for my son,” — Corshawnda Hatter
Chicago police confirmed that a 33-year-old woman and a 9-year-old boy were struck multiple times just after 3 p.m. Both were transported to a local hospital in serious condition.
Police and City Officials Respond
The Chicago Police Department has launched an active investigation, though no arrests have been made. A spokesperson reiterated that while the agency cannot identify juvenile offenders or victims, they are reviewing video evidence and interviewing witnesses.
Chicago Mayor Brandon Johnson expressed his concern after viewing the viral footage. In a public statement, he wrote that he was “deeply disturbed” by what he saw and emphasized the need for accountability.
“That type of behavior is unacceptable in our city and we must not normalize that type of senseless violence.”
— Mayor Brandon Johnson
Bullying Allegations Surface
Hatter revealed that the attack may be connected to ongoing bullying at the school, adding more urgency to the community’s demand for stronger safety protocols. At a rally held Tuesday outside the school, community members gathered in support of the family, calling for swift action.
During the rally, Hatter described how the trauma has affected her emotionally.
“I wake up in the middle of the night with that vision in my head of my son calling my name to help him and I couldn’t do nothing for him. That really hurt me the most.”
— Corshawnda Hatter
Illinois State Senator Willie Preston also condemned the attack, stating that no parent should fear for their safety in their own community.
School District Says It Is Working With Authorities
Chicago Public Schools issued a statement calling the incident “horrifying” and confirmed they are coordinating with law enforcement.
The district highlighted its policies for conflict resolution, referencing the Student Code of Conduct and the responsibility of school staff to maintain safe environments.
“School administrators, teachers, and support staff work with students to create an open environment where conflicts and grievances can be addressed… It is always our goal for all members of our school communities to work together proactively to maintain a safe and calm environment.” — Chicago Public Schools (CPS) Statement
Community Demands Justice and Better Safety
As the investigation continues, residents are demanding stronger security measures, trauma support for affected students, and clearer intervention strategies for bullying-related incidents.
Local activists say the viral video reflects broader concerns about youth violence in Chicago, pushing leaders to address systemic issues that contribute to such behavior.
For Hatter and her family, the priority now is healing and ensuring that justice is served. If you want more community-focused updates and discussions, visit mikeandjonpodcast.com.
