There is a new Illinois law under consideration that supporters say will help solve more Chicago homicide cases, especially cold cases.
There are two key parts to the legislation. The first allows families with unsolved homicide cases over three years old to request a new review of the case. The second requires the Chicago Police Department to publish more related data.
Rafael Burgos said his 18-year-old daughter Alexandria was sitting in her friend’s kitchen when she was struck by a stray bullet. Ten years later, her case remains unsolved.
“She was a bright, beautiful individual with a smile that would light up a room,” he said. “It’s been heart wrenching.”
Hers isn’t the only one. Families of unsolved homicide victims joined State Rep. Kam Buckner (D-26th District) as he introduced the new legislation.
“If approved, it will trigger a new investigation, a complete analysis of the case,” he said.
Buckner, whose uncle died in a yet-unsolved shooting, said the bill began as a “passion project” in 2019 that has gained new momentum since several advocacy groups have begun supporting it.