Chicago mother, son attacked by students near school; community demands action

CHICAGO — Outrage is growing after a mother and her children were brutally attacked near Orville T. Bright Elementary School on Chicago’s Far South Side.

Chicago mother and son attacked

Police said a group of students assaulted Corshawnda Hatter, 33, and her 9‑year‑old son Monday afternoon near 106th Street and Bensley Avenue. Viral video shows students surrounding them, throwing punches, and pushing them to the ground. Hatter later wrote online that the attackers stomped on her and slammed her son’s head into concrete while her daughter watched.

Emergency crews transported both victims to Trinity Hospital in serious condition. Police reported the group struck them several times around 3:10 p.m. Investigators have not made arrests, and they continue pursuing leads in the case.

GoFundMe campaign created for support

Hatter launched a GoFundMe campaign to move her family, saying they are “no longer safe where we live.” The fundraiser had raised more than $7,000 by Wednesday evening. “After everything that happened, and how unsafe the environment around us has become, I know in my heart that we have to leave,” she wrote.

Officials react

Mayor Brandon Johnson said the video left him “deeply disturbed.”

He promised accountability and urged calm while police increased patrols in the area. Johnson said the Chicago Housing Authority is working on additional measures, and community violence prevention groups are engaging students.

“We must redouble our efforts to teach our young people that violence is never an acceptable response,” Johnson said.

Community Demands Justice after Chicago Mother, Son Attacked

Neighbors rallied outside Bright Elementary on Tuesday, demanding justice and stronger protections for students. Hatter told supporters the attack stemmed from bullying at the school. “I’m trying to get justice for my son. I’m thankful to everybody that came out here to support me,” she said.

Rapper Lil Zay Osama also offered support, posting on Instagram that he wanted to fly the family to Los Angeles for dinner and Christmas shopping.

“Kids should be able to go to school and be comfortable walking home,” he told FOX 32.

Statement from Chicago Public Schools

Chicago Public Schools released a statement condemning the attack. CPS said it is coordinating with city agencies to support the family and reinforce safety measures. “We are horrified by the attack on this family,” the district said. “School leaders work with parents and all parties involved to find a resolution, adhering to the Student Code of Conduct.”

The incident has sparked widespread debate about bullying, accountability, and student safety across Chicago.

Community members continue to demand urgent action to protect families walking to and from school.