Woman Charged in Death of 4-Year-Old Son, Stabbing of Two Children, Arson in Chicago

A tragic case of domestic violence has rocked the Logan Square neighborhood in Chicago, where 46-year-old Wendy Tolbert has been charged with the murder of her 4-year-old son, attempted murder of her two other children, and multiple counts of arson and assault.

Tolbert allegedly stabbed her son, Jordan Wallace, 36 times before setting their home on fire with all three children inside. The boy later died at Stroger Hospital, while his siblings, a 10-year-old boy and a 13-year-old girl, survived with severe stab wounds, the older child now in critical condition.

Authorities say the attack occurred around 9:00 a.m. on July 19, when the children were at home. The 10-year-old was stabbed while playing video games, and Jordan was stabbed and kicked down the stairs while trying to flee.

The 13-year-old, after being stabbed multiple times, managed to call 911. Police arrived to find Tolbert holding a knife and a flaming paper towel. Firefighters rescued the children and other residents from the burning building, which was set using lighter fluid and rubbing alcohol.

Tolbert reportedly admitted to the attack, telling officers her children were “possessed by the devil.”

This brutal attack represents a gross violation of children’s rights to life, safety, and protection from violence. No child should suffer such cruelty, particularly at the hands of a parent.