WASHINGTON, DC – U.S. Senator Jack Reed condemned the brutal murder of Wadea Al Fayoume, an innocent 6-year old Palestinian-American boy in Plainfield, Illinois, who was stabbed to death by a 71-year-old perpetrator, who also seriously wounded the boy’s mother, Hanaan Shahin.  The alleged perpetrator was their landlord and has been charged with first-degree murder, attempted first-degree murder, two counts of a hate crime and aggravated battery with a deadly weapon. 

According to law enforcement, the perpetrator allegedly targeted Hanaan and Wadea due to their Muslim faith and the ongoing conflict in the Israel-Hamas War.

Today, Senator Reed stated:

“There are no words to express the profound sorrow we feel for the loss of this innocent child.  This was a shocking, unconscionable act of hate.  The perpetrator must be brought to justice. 

“This type of vitriolic hate has no place in our society.  One of our nation’s founding principles is freedom of religion.  We must confront and counter Islamophobic bigotry and show support for our Muslim neighbors.  We must work together to advance tolerance and understanding.  Those who kill indiscriminately seek to spread violence, hatred, and intolerance.  Through education, taking a public stand, and refuting misinformation, we can help stop the spread of hate and build stronger, more just communities.”