Chicago police release photos of hate crime suspects after Jewish DePaul students attacked
CHICAGO - Two students at DePaul University were attacked on campus Wednesday after showing their support for Israel.
DePaul University President Robert Manuel said two Jewish students expressing support for Israel were punched outside the student center on the Lincoln Park campus.
Manuel shared a letter with the DePaul community on Wednesday expressing outrage. He said the attack happened at 3:20 p.m. when masked offenders assaulted the two students.
The students were injured but declined medical treatment.
"We recognize that for a significant portion of our Jewish community, Israel is a core part of their Jewish identity. Those students – and every student - should feel safe on our university campus," Manuel wrote in the letter.
Manuel said the university will hold those responsible accountable for what he called this "outrageous" incident. He asked for witnesses to call the public safety office at DePaul.
According to police, the suspects engaged the victims and made antisemitic remarks before repeatedly striking them.
These are the descriptions of the suspects:
- Offender #1 - Male, approx. 20-years-old, Height: 5'08–5'11, Weight: 150–170, full beard, short dark hair with shaved sides. Last seen wearing a black t-shirt, black pants, and black shoes.
- Offender #2 - Male, approx. 20-years-old, Height: 5'10–6'00, Weight: 150–170. Last seen wearing a black balaclava covering his face, white t-shirt, and khaki pants.
Suspects in DePaul University attack | CPD
Manuel said the university will ensure that the campus is a safe and welcoming place for all.
There were some tensions on campus earlier this year during protests related to Palestinians in Gaza. Students reported feeling intimidated while trying to walk to class, dining halls and the student center.
Anyone with information on the suspects is urged to contact the Chicago Police Department at 312-744-8261. Anonymous tips can be submitted at CPDtip.com.