Joseph Czuba is accused of killing Wadea Al-Fayoume and seriously injuring his mother in Plainfield, Illinois.
The landlord allegedly targeted the mother and child who were his tenants because of their religion and the ongoing conflict between Hamas and Israel.
US President Joe Biden said he was shocked and saddened by Saturday’s attack.
“This horrific act of hate has no place in America and goes against our core values: freedom from fear because of how we pray, what we believe and who we are,” he said.
Hanaan Shahin, 32, was attacked by her landlord who had a military-style knife with an 18cm blade. She ran into the bathroom to call police, authorities said.
The woman suffered a dozen stab wounds, but is expected to survive.
The boy was stabbed more than two dozen times
Her son Wadea was stabbed more than two dozen times in the attack and later died in hospital.
He celebrated his sixth birthday just a few weeks ago. “He loved his family, his friends. He loved football, basketball,” said Ahmed Rehab, executive director of the Chicago chapter of the Council on American-Islamic Relations.
When officers arrived at the scene, about 40 miles southwest of Chicago, they found Czuba sitting on the ground outside the home with a slash wound to his face.
The Palestinian-American victims were found in a bedroom.
Mr. Czuba was taken to the hospital and treated before being interviewed by detectives. He was later charged with first-degree murder, attempted murder, hate crimes and aggravated battery.
Although he did not make a statement, detectives said they were able to establish a possible motive.
“Both victims of this brutal attack were targeted by the suspect because they were Muslim and because of the ongoing conflict in the Middle East involving Hamas and the Israelis,” the Will County Sheriff’s Office said.
The US Department of Justice has also opened a federal hate crime investigation into the attack.
The Council on American-Islamic Relations said Wadea was born in the United States and his mother, who is originally from Bethune in the West Bank, came to the country 12 years ago.
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**Interview with Ahmed Rehab, Executive Director of the Chicago Chapter of the Council on American-Islamic Relations**
**Interviewer**: Thank you for joining us today, Ahmed. The incident involving Joseph Czuba has shocked many in our community. Can you give us a brief overview of what happened?
**Ahmed Rehab**: Certainly. This tragic incident occurred in Plainfield, Illinois, where Joseph Czuba, a landlord, is accused of murdering six-year-old Wadea Al-Fayoume and seriously injuring his mother, Hanaan Shahin. The attack appears to have been motivated by anti-Muslim sentiment and related to the ongoing conflict affecting many in the region.
**Interviewer**: It’s devastating to hear about such violence. President Biden expressed his shock and sadness over this act of hate. How do you feel his statement resonates with the community, especially in light of recent events?
**Ahmed Rehab**: The President’s words are a crucial acknowledgment of the pain and fear that communities like ours are experiencing. His statement underscores the necessity of standing against hate in all its forms. Our community needs to feel safe, regardless of our backgrounds or beliefs, and such acts are a direct assault on those values.
**Interviewer**: Can you tell us more about Hanaan Shahin’s condition after the attack and the efforts underway to support her?
**Ahmed Rehab**: Hanaan suffered multiple stab wounds but is expected to survive, which is a small relief amidst this horrific tragedy. We’ve been working to provide her with the support she needs, including medical assistance and emotional support for her recovery. The community has rallied together to assist her and honor Wadea’s memory.
**Interviewer**: This incident has understandably affected the local Muslim community deeply. What steps are being taken to address rising concerns about safety?
**Ahmed Rehab**: We’re actively engaging with local law enforcement and community leaders to discuss safety measures. Additionally, we are amplifying our outreach programs to educate on the harmful impacts of hate and bigotry. It’s vital for us to foster an environment of understanding and tolerance.
**Interviewer**: Lastly, what message would you like to share with those affected by this incident and the broader community?
**Ahmed Rehab**: My message is one of solidarity. We must come together to denounce hate, support one another, and ensure that tragedies like this do not happen again. It’s important to remember Wadea for the joyful little boy he was and to fight for a future where everyone can live freely and without fear.
**Interviewer**: Thank you, Ahmed, for sharing your insights and for the vital work you’re doing in our community. Our thoughts are with Hanaan and all affected by this tragedy.
