Chicago police seek public's help after antisemitic attack on Jewish students

CHICAGO (TNND) — Chicago police are looking into an attack on two Jewish college students.

Police shared photos of the alleged masked attackers on Thursday.

They allege that the masked individuals yelled antisemitic comments at the male students before they were assaulted at Lincoln Park.

Both victims, ages 21 and 27, who were visibly showing support for Israel, were beaten and knocked down to the ground, according to authorities.

The alleged offenders described the attackers as men in their 20s. Both fled the scene before police arrived.

Police alerted the public on Thursday asking them to identify the two pictured individuals in the hate crime investigation.

Chicago Jewish Alliance released a public statement condemning the attack and called for justice.

We are deeply saddened and outraged to report that two Jewish students were brutally assaulted at DePaul University today. This shocking act of violence is a stark reminder of the growing intolerance and anti-Semitism that cannot be tolerated in our society. Where is the institution safeguarding our Jewish students? Their safety and well-being should be a top priority. We demand accountability and immediate action from the university to ensure that all students can learn and thrive in a secure environment. This is unacceptable, and we will not remain silent. The Chicago Jewish Alliance stands firmly with these students, and we will continue to advocate for their protection and support. We will be their voice and fight against hatred in all its forms. This is not just an isolated incident; it is a call to action for all of us. We must unite to create a safe space for our Jewish community and stand against prejudice. This will not be the last you hear from us regarding this critical issue.

DePaul University released a statement about the attack.

"We are outraged that this occurred on our campus. It is completely unacceptable and a violation of DePaul's values to uphold and care for the dignity of every individual," statedDePaul's President Robert Manuel.

In a letter addressed to students on Wednesday, the university claimed it was working with police on the ongoing investigation.

"The university is actively working with the Chicago Police Department to investigate this incident so that they can determine whether to classify it as a hate crime that targeted our students because of their Jewish identity."

On Thursday, police identified the attack as a battery hate crime in its community alert.

Earlier this year, there were anti-Israel demonstrations and encampments reported atDePaul University.