CHICAGO — Authorities are investigating the death of a 2-month-old boy who was found unresponsive inside a Southwest Side apartment Tuesday afternoon in the Brighton Park neighborhood, according to police.
The child, later identified by the Cook County Medical Examiner’s Office as Emilio Villarrell, was discovered inside an apartment in the 4100 block of South Maplewood Avenue. The discovery was made just before 1 p.m. by a witness on the scene, who alerted emergency responders.
When first responders arrived, they found the infant unresponsive. Despite efforts, he was pronounced dead at the scene.
Ongoing Police Investigation
As of Wednesday, police say Area One detectives are actively investigating the circumstances surrounding the child’s death. No arrests have been reported, and the cause of death has not yet been determined.
Chicago police have not indicated any immediate signs of foul play, but have emphasized that this remains a death investigation in progress.
Authorities have not shared whether other individuals were present in the apartment at the time or whether the child had any known medical history.
Similar Case Cited In City
The incident comes just days after the murder charges filed against a 25-year-old woman in an unrelated death of another infant in Chicago’s Near West Side — raising ongoing concerns over infant welfare in residential care situations citywide.
Community Impact
The Brighton Park neighborhood, already grappling with issues tied to housing and family safety, has been shaken by the news of the child’s sudden and unexplained death.
Residents told local media that it’s “deeply troubling” to see another infant death reported in the city, and they’re awaiting answers as police continue their probe.
Awaiting Autopsy Results
The Cook County Medical Examiner’s Office will determine the official cause and manner of Emilio Villarrell’s death following a scheduled autopsy. Police are expected to release more details once the autopsy is complete and investigative leads are confirmed.
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