The Chicago Police Department (CPD) has released images of two suspects wanted for attacking two Jewish students near DePaul University on Wednesday afternoon in what law enforcement is describing as a 'battery/hate crime.'
The incident occurred in Lincoln Park near DePaul University while two students were showing their support for Israel, according to CPD.
During the incident, one of the offenders verbally engaged the victim and made antisemitic remarks before repeatedly striking the victim, CPD reported.
One of the victims, a former member of the Israel Defense Forces, was wearing a sign identifying him as such and inviting conversation, as confirmed by Josh Weiner, a co-founder of the Chicago Jewish Alliance.
The suspects are described as two males around 20 years old, weighing between 150 and 170 pounds.
The first suspect was wearing a black balaclava covering his face, a white T-shirt, and khaki pants, standing between 5 feet, 8 inches and 5 feet, 11 inches tall.
The second suspect has a beard, short dark hair with shaved sides, and was last seen wearing a black T-shirt, black pants, and black shoes.
Robert Manuel, the university's president, expressed his dismay over the attack, which took place in front of the Student Center at around 3:20 p.m., prompting a public safety alert for faculty, staff, and students.
The victims declined medical treatment for their injuries, and DePaul University is providing care and resources to them while collaborating with Chicago police to address the incident.
Manuel emphasized the university's commitment to ensuring a safe and welcoming environment for all members of its diverse community, condemning the attack as a violation of DePaul's values.
DePaul University has pledged to hold those responsible for the incident accountable and reiterated its stance against acts of hatred or violence on campus.
Following the attack, DePaul reaffirmed its dedication to maintaining a safe and inclusive campus for all students, recognizing the importance of ensuring the safety of every individual within the university community.
Chicago police officers previously intervened in anti-Israel demonstrations at DePaul University earlier this year, clearing an encampment from the university's quad after protests led to the closure of green spaces.
