Shavon Gayden accused of stabbing

Shavon Gayden, 48, was accused of fatally stabbing 7-year-old Eddimar Hernández-Chacón.

“Shavon Gayden did not slip through the cracks of a functional system”

Gayden's mental health history

Gayden had a history of violent acts including attacking a CTA bus driver and shelter worker.

Public defender's claim

Assistant Public Defender Brett Balmer said Gayden 'walked right through the open door of a system that does not provide any mental health services'.

“Shavon Gayden walked right through the open door of a system that does not provide any mental health services”

Attack details

Gayden stabbed Eddimar in the 8600 block of South Cottage Grove Avenue just before noon Saturday.

Unprovoked stabbing

Police report described the attack as 'unprovoked'.

“The fatal attack was 'unprovoked'”

Gayden's hospitalization

Gayden remained hospitalized after the attack and her detention hearing was rescheduled.

Request for psychiatric evaluation

Balmer requested a psychiatric evaluation before Gayden's next hearing.

“It will be an issue on Friday”

Medical records request

Balmer asked for access to medical records from up to 10 hospitals where Gayden sought treatment.

Family impact

Eddimar's uncle launched GoFundMe campaign raising $16,000 for funeral costs and 'dignified farewell'.

“To our family, Eddimar will always be a very special girl”

Gayden's mother apology

Gayden's mother said she would have prevented the attack if Gayden received proper mental health care.

Next steps

Gayden will be moved to Cook County Jail but mental health issues require immediate attention.