Pilsen explosion – An explosion early Saturday in Chicago’s Pilsen neighborhood shattered a window at Ald. Byron Sigcho Lopez’s home. Police suspected the blast involved a firework, and Bomb and Arson Unit investigators are looking into footage showing two men igniting an explos
An explosion struck just after midnight in Pilsen, shattering a window at Ald. Byron Sigcho Lopez’s home—despite the alderman’s office saying no injuries were reported.
Video and still images released by the 25th Ward alderman’s office show someone igniting an explosive that detonates. sending up a cloud of smoke. The footage captures shattering glass and the sound of a car alarm. The blast occurred at about 12:45 a.m. near West 21st Street and South Damen Avenue, according to Sigcho Lopez’s office.
Chicago police said the explosive was suspected to be a firework. The alderman’s office also pointed to surveillance video showing two men in an SUV pull up to the area. One man exited the car, lit the explosive, and returned before the vehicle drove off.
Sigcho Lopez’s office said his three children were inside the home sleeping at the time of the blast.
The Chicago Police Department’s Bomb and Arson Unit is investigating the incident, according to the alderman’s office. Sigcho Lopez did not immediately respond to a request for comment.
Sigcho Lopez has served as alderman since 2019. He is also running an independent campaign for the 4th Congressional District seat soon to be vacated by retiring U.S. Rep. Jesus “Chuy” Garcia.
Anyone with video of the incident or further information was asked to contact the 25th Ward Office at (773) 523-4100 or ward25@cityofchicago.org, or to contact Area 3 detectives at (312) 744-8263.
Pilsen Chicago Ald. Byron Sigcho Lopez firework explosion Bomb and Arson Unit surveillance video 25th Ward West 21st Street South Damen Avenue Jesus Chuy Garcia 4th Congressional District