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Joseph Czuba, aged 73, the landlord convicted of murdering 6-year-old Wadee Alfayoumi and severely injuring his mother Hanan Shaheen in a 2023 hate crime, has died in prison custody. He had received a 53‑year sentence just three months ago after being found guilty of first-degree murder, attempted murder, aggravated battery, and hate crime charges
⚖️ Crime & Trial Highlights
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The killings occurred in October 2023 in Plainfield, Illinois, shortly after the eruption of the Israel–Hamas conflict. Czuba stabbed Wadee 26 times, yelling anti-Muslim slurs during the attack
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Shaheen, who survived, testified that Czuba told her, “You, as a Muslim, must die.” Evidence included her 911 call, disturbing crime scene photos, and testimony from Czuba’s ex-wife, who described his shift from neighborly to hostile behavior following news of the conflict
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The jury deliberated for under two hours before declaring him guilty on all counts in February 2025, leading to his sentencing in May for a combined 53 years in prison
🖤 Community Impact & Legacy
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The tragic incident sparked fear across the Palestinian and Muslim communities in the Chicago suburbs, reinforcing concerns about rising anti-Muslim hate in the U.S.
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In memory of Wadee, local officials dedicated a playground in Plainfield and community organizations, including CAIR-Chicago, paid tribute with vigils and calls for justice
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While Czuba’s death closes the legal chapter, civil lawsuits and broader advocacy continue against Islamophobia and racial hatred in America
