Yesterday morning (Oct. 22), our community experienced an unthinkable tragedy at the Chik-fil-A restaurant on Route 34. Two men were violently attacked, one of whom lost his life, and another who remains hospitalized with serious injuries.

Our hearts are broken for the families, friends, and everyone affected by this senseless act of violence. On behalf of the Village of Oswego, I extend our deepest condolences to the victims’ loved ones and to all who are grieving today.

I want to thank the Oswego Police Department, Montgomery Police Department, Oswego Fire Protection District, Kendall County Major Crimes Task Force, Kendall County State’s Attorney’s Office, Kendall County Sheriff’s Department, Kendall County Coroner’s Office, and the Kane County Bomb Squad for their swift and coordinated response. Thanks to the incredibly heroic actions of a victim and his mother who subdued the offender and called 911, the suspect was taken into custody within minutes of the call. Their courage prevented further harm and ensured the safety of others. I want to reassure the community that there is no further threat to the community from this incident, and is an isolated incident.

At this time, the offender remains in custody, and investigators are working closely with the Kendall County State’s Attorney’s Office to determine charges. Once those charges are filed, more details will be released to the public.

As the investigation continues, I ask our community for patience and understanding as law enforcement and prosecutors complete their work. It’s important that the process is thorough, accurate, and just—for the victims, their families, and for our entire community.

I also ask our community to keep the victims and their families in our hearts, and to continue to support one another with the compassion and strength that defines Oswego.

Even in moments of darkness, the light of this community shines through in the courage of those who acted, the dedication of our first responders, and the care our residents show for one another. Together, we will heal, we will support those in pain, and we will emerge stronger as One Oswego.