Chicago volunteers say a loose mutual-aid network has shipped more than 150,000 whistles, zines and know-your-rights kits to communities facing ICE enforcement. The effort mixes 3D printing with neighborhood "whistle parties."

Illinois Democrats petitioned the DNC to move the 2028 primary earlier — a move the state says will test nominees and that could give Gov. J.B. Pritzker an edge.

A 50-year-old man was killed when his car left Howe Road near Wonder Lake and struck a tree. Authorities say alcohol is suspected and McHenry County investigators are probing the crash.

UNESCO tapped Chicago to host International Jazz Day 2026. Herbie Hancock and local partners will lead a month of concerts, education and a global Lyric Opera livestream.

Officer Jeffery Shafer faces possible dismissal after prosecutors dropped his criminal case in a 2021 teen‑beating allegation. The administrative fight collides with a state court battle over public arbitration.

Seven people were killed across Chicago in under 18 hours last Sunday, a rare January spike that has officials and neighbors reeling.

Twin former Thornton Fractional teachers face criminal charges alleging sexual assaults. Board minutes show both resigned in June 2024 as investigations proceed.

A 23-year-old was shot and later died Tuesday on Chicago's Lower West Side; police say an SUV pulled up and the shooter fled. Area Four detectives are investigating.

A child was hurt in a Humboldt Park shooting near Central Park and Ohio; injuries were reported as not life-threatening, authorities say. Investigators are still gathering details.

A 13-year-old boy accidentally shot his hand Tuesday night in East Garfield Park and was taken to Stroger Hospital in good condition. Police recovered a gun and detectives are investigating.

Chicago neighborhoods experience multiple commercial burglaries, with thieves using sledgehammers to break in and steal from local businesses. Police issued an alert and advise increased security.

Chicago braces for extreme cold with possible sub-zero temperatures and wind chill reaching minus 35 degrees, despite earlier light snowfalls and a sunny Friday forecast. An Extreme Cold Watch is in effect from midnight Friday to Saturday noon.

Aurora police officer catches resident jumping from second-story window during house fire rescue; three treated for minor injuries with the home deemed uninhabitable.