Person of interest in custody in connection with Chicago cross burning incident
A person of interest is in custody in connection with an incident last week in which a large wooden cross was constructed and lit on fire in broad daylight in a Chicago park, police said Tuesday.
Police didn't immediately disclose the identity of the person or announce any charges in connection with the June 9 incident at Grant Park.
Around 2:30 p.m. that day, first responders quickly put out the fire from the burning cross as shocked pedestrians looked on.
The burning cross has historically been a symbol of hate that white supremacists have used to harass and intimidate Black Americans.
A day after the incident, Chicago investigators released an image of a person who they alleged had fled the scene.
Representatives from Cook County State's Attorney's Office deferred to Chicago police when asked by ABC News about more information on the investigation.
The incident sparked outcry from city and state leaders and civil rights groups.
At an unrelated news conference Tuesday, Chicago Mayor Brandon Johnson said the incident is "a painful reminder of how hatred towards Black Americans still permeates in our society."
