CHICAGO — A River North CTA station turned into a crime scene Friday night after a 65-year-old woman allegedly stabbed a man without provocation on the Brown Line platform, according to authorities.
Prosecutors say the suspect, Althea Knight, now faces two felony counts of aggravated battery following what a judge called a “savage and random” attack on a man who was simply trying to exit the train.
Victim Was Exiting Train When Attacked
The stabbing happened just after 9:20 p.m. on July 5 at the Chicago-Franklin Brown Line station, located at 300 W. Chicago Avenue.
The male victim and his companion were returning from a movie and preparing to exit the train when the incident occurred. According to a detention petition reviewed by CWBChicago, the victim gestured to Knight to go ahead of him through the door. When she didn’t move, he proceeded forward — and that’s when Knight allegedly attacked.
The victim’s companion told police they saw Knight drop her bags, grip an object, and make stabbing motions into the man’s back. The witness attempted to intervene, shielding the victim with an arm and trying to distance them from the attacker.
Surveillance Video and Arrest
CTA surveillance footage reportedly shows Knight lunging at the victim and stabbing him in the back, confirming the companion’s account. Video also captured the witness stepping in to protect the man.
Police officers later located Knight inside the first car of the same train and recovered two knives near her waistband, according to court documents.
The victim was transported to Northwestern Memorial Hospital and treated for two lacerations to the back of his right shoulder, per statements made in bond court.
Judge Denounces the Attack
At Knight’s bond hearing, Judge James Murphy III ordered that she remain in custody, describing the incident as “completely unprovoked” and labeling it “a savage and random attack carried out for no reason.”
Knight has no apparent prior connection to the victim. Investigators have not yet disclosed a motive for the stabbing.
CTA Violence Remains a Concern
This incident adds to growing concerns about violent crimes on Chicago’s public transit system, especially in areas like River North, where nightlife and tourist foot traffic are high.
Authorities have urged riders to remain aware of their surroundings and to report suspicious behavior immediately to CTA staff or 911.
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