A 15-year-old girl has been charged with first-degree murder in the death of Kyle T. Bickham, 29, who was pushed from a moving Chicago Transit Authority (CTA) train on September 7, Chicago police confirmed on September 11.
The teen, whose identity has not been publicly disclosed due to her age, was arrested and charged with mob action, murder by other forcible felony, and aggravated battery to a transit employee, all felonies. She is scheduled to appear in juvenile court on September 14, according to the Cook County State's Attorney's Office. Two other suspects remain at large as the investigation continues.
How the incident unfolded
Bickham died after being pushed from a moving Red Line train during an altercation at approximately 2:40 p.m. on September 7, police said. He struck the electrified third rail and was then struck by an oncoming train, according to the Chicago Police Department and reports from CBS Chicago and ABC7 Chicago. The Cook County Medical Examiner’s Office ruled his death a homicide, citing multiple injuries sustained in the incident.
Bickham was pronounced dead at the scene and had been returning home from an overnight shift at an Amazon warehouse in Cicero, Illinois, his family said. His mother, Latanya Bickham, described him as a dedicated worker who was focused on building a future for himself.
Legal proceedings and ongoing investigation
The 15-year-old suspect was identified through investigative work and arrested on September 11, police confirmed in a news release. The charges against her include first-degree murder, which, under Illinois law, can apply to individuals who participate in a forcible felony that results in death, even if they did not directly cause the fatal injuries.
It remains unclear whether the teen will be tried as an adult, as decisions on juvenile prosecutions are made on a case-by-case basis. The case is being handled in juvenile court, where sentencing options differ from those in adult criminal court.
Police have not disclosed a motive for the incident, and the investigation is ongoing. Authorities have appealed to the public for witnesses or anyone with information to come forward.
Family seeks support for funeral expenses
In the wake of Bickham’s death, his brother, Chris Bickham Jr., established a GoFundMe campaign to raise funds for funeral expenses. In the campaign description, he described Kyle as a beloved figure known for his kindness, humor, and ability to bring joy to those around him.
“Kyle was a son, brother, uncle, family member, and friend who was loved by so many,” the post read. “He was a light, goofy, kind, caring, and always able to bring laughter to those around him. His passing was sudden, and our family is asking for help giving Kyle the homegoing he deserves and sending him home to the Lord.”
The campaign underscores the emotional and financial toll the incident has taken on Bickham’s loved ones, who are seeking to honor his memory while navigating the immediate aftermath of his death.