Chicago, IL – The Chicago Transit Authority is intensifying safety measures on its buses and trains in response to a wave of violent incidents. This comes as the family of Larry Gilkey, a 62-year-old man severely injured in an attack on a bus, is speaking out about the ordeal.
Gilkey was assaulted by three teenagers aboard a CTA bus as it traversed the West Side. Following the brutal encounter, he was placed in a medically induced coma for several days due to significant brain bleeding. According to family members, he was targeted after trying to assist one of the assailants.
During his hospital stay, Gilkey struggled to communicate while medical staff worked to stabilize him. His nephew, Tavarris Harvey, recounted the distressing moment he received a frantic call from his uncle’s twin brother, who was overwhelmed with concern.
Harvey rushed to the hospital, where he found his uncle surrounded by medical equipment. Chicago police later confirmed that Gilkey was attacked after a teen approached him asking for bus fare. As he reached for his wallet, two other teenagers joined in the assault.
“I feel like it was a setup,” Harvey said, reflecting on the incident. “It was like bait and switch, to see if a person actually had some money on them.” During the incident, either Gilkey was kicked in the head, or his head struck an object, leading to his critical condition.
Authorities announced on Monday that two teenagers, a boy and a girl, both aged 15, were charged with multiple felony counts, including aggravated battery against a transit worker and committing felony assault against a person over 60. The girl was also charged with theft related to a previous vehicle incident.
The third suspect remains unnamed, with charges pending. Harvey expressed his determination for justice, asserting that the attackers should face adult charges. “They should be held accountable. There shouldn’t be any breaks,” he stated.
In the wake of rising medical expenses, the family has launched a GoFundMe campaign to assist with Gilkey’s care. “He has a long way to go, and he’s going to need extra care at home,” Harvey added.
Despite the trauma, Gilkey is out of his coma and reportedly responded positively to news of the charges against his assailants, offering a thumbs up and a smile to his family members.
As the CTA increases its safety protocols, the community watches closely, grappling with the implications of such violence on public transportation.