A 15-year-old girl has been charged with first-degree murder after Chicago police said she was among three people involved in pushing a 29-year-old man from a moving Chicago Transit Authority Red Line train.
The deceased, Kyle T. Bickham, was travelling home after completing a shift at an Amazon warehouse in Cicero when an altercation broke out aboard the train near the 69th Street station on September 7. Investigators initially believed Bickham had jumped from the train, but later determined that he had been pushed during the confrontation.
Police said Bickham fell onto the electrified third rail before being struck by another train. He was pronounced dead at the scene. The Cook County Medical Examiner’s Office ruled his death a homicide.
The teenage suspect was arrested on September 11 and faces several felony charges, including first-degree murder, mob action, murder by other forcible felony and aggravated battery to a transit employee. Her name has not been released because she is a minor.
A court has ordered the girl to remain in custody after prosecutors established probable cause. She is due back in juvenile court on September 14.
Police said two other people believed to have been involved remain at large.
Bickham’s family described him as kind, hardworking and caring. Relatives said he loved writing poetry, spending time with his nieces and bringing happiness to those around him. His family has appealed for witnesses and the remaining suspects to come forward as the investigation continues.
