Suspected fireworks explosion outside Chicago alder's home investigated by CPD

CHICAGO - A possible firework exploded outside the home of Chicago Ald. Byron Sigcho-Lopez early Saturday, damaging a window but causing no injuries, according to police and the alderman.

What we know:

The incident occurred about 12:45 a.m. near West 21st Street and South Damen Avenue outside the home of Sigcho-Lopez, who represents the city's 25th Ward.

Sigcho-Lopez said surveillance video showed two men arriving in an SUV. One of the men exited the vehicle, ignited the device in front of the home and returned to the SUV, which drove away moments before the explosion.

Sigcho-Lopez said his three children were asleep inside the home when the device detonated.

Chicago police said the device was a suspected firework that was ignited in the street before it exploded. Police confirmed a window was damaged and said no injuries were reported.

Dion McGill, the 7th Police District Councilor, condemned what he called the "bombing" in a lengthy statement on Facebook:

"Regardless of political affiliation, ideology, or disagreements over policy, there is absolutely no place for this kind of violence in our city. Reports indicate that Alderman Sigcho-Lopez’s three children were inside the home at the time. That fact alone should give all of us pause.

"As District Councilors, we speak often about what public safety means. At its core, public safety means that people should be able to live in their homes free from violence, intimidation, and fear. That principle applies to every resident of Chicago, including those who serve in public office and the families who never asked to be part of political battles.

"Acts like this do more than threaten an individual family. They undermine democratic participation by suggesting that political disagreements should be resolved through fear rather than dialogue, organizing, advocacy, and elections.

"Unfortunately, many of us who have participated in Chicago politics have witnessed behavior that falls short of those democratic ideals. Threats, intimidation, harassment, and the dehumanization of those with whom we disagree have become too common. During my own campaign for District Council, I experienced some of this firsthand, and I know I am far from alone."

What we don't know:

Authorities have not identified any suspects or provided any further information. 

What's next:

The Chicago Police Department's Bomb and Arson Unit is investigating the incident. No arrests have been made.

Officials are asking anyone with surveillance footage or information to contact the 25th Ward Office at 773-523-4100 or ward25@cityofchicago.org, or reach out to Area 3 detectives.

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