A Chicago woman is facing first-degree murder and other charges after she allegedly fatally stabbed her 4-year-old son and wounded her two other children on Friday.
At a court appearance on Sunday, prosecutors said that 45-year-old Wendy Tolbert told officials she believed her children were “possessed by the devil,” which prompted the violence.
The Chicago Police Department said Tolbert also “knowingly” set the home on fire while people were present. The Chicago Sun-Times reported that the fire spread to the upstairs’ neighbors’ apartment and to a house next door, collapsing the roof.
The Context
In addition to facing a first-degree murder charge, Tolbert is also facing attempted murder, aggravated arson and aggravated battery charges.
During court proceedings, Tolbert’s public defender said she has a history of mental illness and received a recent cancer diagnosis.
Prosecutors detailed the violent attack that resulted in the death of her 4-year-old son Jordan Wallace and injuries inflicted on his siblings who are 10- and 13-years old.
The incident also led to the hospitalization of neighbors and police officers for smoke inhalation.
Chicago Police Department
Incident Timeline and Details
Tolbert allegedly began her attack inside the Logan Square residence on Friday morning, first approaching her 10-year-old son with a knife. Prosecutors said the child was playing video games, while his 4-year-old brother slept beside him on the couch.
The boy ran to the basement to escape after being stabbed in the arm. Prosecutors then said Tolbert then stabbed Wallace more than 36 times after kicking him down the stairs.
Her 13-year-old daughter, who attempted to call police, was also stabbed multiple times as she tried to escape, enduring wounds to her face, back, and chest, NBC Chicago reported.
Emergency Response and Fire
The Chicago Police Department said officials arrested Tolbert at 9:34 a.m.
The 13-year-old called 911 and said her mother was trying to kill her, NBC Chicago reported. Arriving officers found the 10-year-old calling for help from a window.
Officials allegedly observed Tolbert holding a burning paper towel.
The 13-year-old girl was intubated and remained hospitalized in critical condition after multiple surgeries, while the 10-year-old boy was released after treatment for his injuries, NBC Chicago reported.
Court Hearing
Tolbert was taken for psychiatric evaluation after her arrest, the Chicago Sun-Times reported.
Her public defender told the judge she had no prior criminal record. The court denied a request for electronic monitoring.
What People Are Saying
Julius Davis, grandfather of the two youngest children, in comments to the Chicago Sun-Times: “We’re all still reeling, we’re trying to figure out how to move forward. We’re trying to figure out how to put our lives together, but more importantly, put the kids’ lives back together.”
Debra Davis, grandmother of the two youngest children, in comments to the Chicago Sun-Times: “Our baby is gone. It’s just too painful.”
Cook County Judge James Murphy, at a hearing on Sunday: “This is pure violence. Not only are you a danger to your children, but to the other residents in that building, your neighbors and the police officers responding.”
What Happens Next?
Tolbert, who received no bail, remains in custody awaiting her next court appearance. Meanwhile, a GoFundMe for the family has raised over $3,600.
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