CHICAGO, Ill. — A devastating tragedy unfolded in Tinley Park on Sunday, as a father was charged with first-degree murder in the shooting deaths of his wife and three daughters. Maher Kassem faces four counts of first-degree murder in connection with the shocking incident, which took place inside a home on the 7400 block of West 173rd Street.
According to the Cook County State’s Attorney’s Office, police were called to the scene around 11:20 a.m. on Sunday after receiving reports of a shooting. Upon arrival, they discovered the lifeless bodies of Kassem’s wife and three daughters. The victims were identified as Majeda Kassem, 53; Halema Kassem, 25; Hanan Kassem, 24; and Zahia Kassem, 25.
Village Manager Pat Carr confirmed that the shooting occurred as a result of a domestic incident. Kassem was immediately taken into custody, and authorities recovered a weapon at the scene. The tragic event left the community in shock, as there had been no prior record of police interaction at the residence.
Additionally, sources revealed that another person was present in the house at the time of the shooting, but authorities have not disclosed the individual’s relationship to Kassem or the victims. The motive behind the shooting remains unknown at this time.
Kassem was scheduled to appear in court in Bridgeview on Tuesday afternoon to face the charges against him. The community was left reeling from the heartbreaking news of the senseless tragedy.
The impact of the devastating loss reverberated throughout Tinley Park, as friends, neighbors, and community members grappled with the profound grief brought on by the incomprehensible act of violence. The investigation into this tragic event is ongoing, and authorities continue to seek answers regarding the motive behind this heinous crime.