A teenage boy in Chicago is facing murder charges for allegedly stabbing and beating his 16-year-old girlfriend to death in a park. The 15-year-old suspect was ordered by a Cook County Juvenile Court judge to remain in custody following a hearing on Monday.
According to prosecutors, the boy was last seen holding hands with Kaylah Love as they left a McDonald’s near Roosevelt Road and Kedzie Avenue on March 16. Shortly afterward, he allegedly attacked her in Horan Park, located a few blocks away. Kaylah’s family later held a vigil for her at the park, expressing gratitude to those who helped authorities make an arrest but declining further comment.
The 15-year-old suspect, whose identity is not being disclosed due to his age, was taken into custody on Sunday. Prosecutors stated that a witness to the attack identified him, and surveillance footage tracked his movements from the park to his residence. Upon executing a search warrant, law enforcement officials recovered clothing that matched what the suspect was seen wearing on the night of March 16. Additionally, prosecutors noted that Kaylah’s phone listed an encrypted social media account under the name “boyfriend,” which they linked to the suspect.
The Cook County Medical Examiner determined that Kaylah died from multiple traumatic injuries. Prosecutors alleged that the suspect initially struck her in the face before continuing the assault while she was on the ground. He reportedly used his feet and a glass bottle to inflict further harm.
Kaylah was a student at Manley Career Academy High School and had aspirations of pursuing a career in culinary arts. Following her death, her family stated that police were initially called to Horan Park on March 16 in response to reports of a fight. However, they claim that officers only drove by the area without exiting their vehicle. Kaylah’s body, severely beaten, was discovered in the park the following day on March 17.
The Chicago Police Department has confirmed that an internal investigation is underway regarding the handling of the initial report. The suspect is scheduled to appear in court again on April 16.
