Father Accused Of Murder In Death Of Baby Son: Mount Prospect Police

MOUNT PROSPECT, IL — A Waukegan man is accused of first-degree murder in the death of his 6-month-old son, who remained under medical care for more than two months following an October 2022 attack. Adrian Chavez, 25, of the 300 block of North Oakwood Avenue, is accused of physically abusing Zayden Chavez to a point that eventually led to his death, according to Mount Prospect police.

Adrian Chavez was arrested on Monday. He was given no bond at a Tuesday bond hearing and remains in the Cook County Jail.

Zayden Chavez succumbed to his injuries on Dec. 29, more than two months after an Oct. 28, 2022, incident. His death was ruled a homicide by the Cook County Medical Examiner's Office, who said Zayden died from complications of multiple injuries and child abuse. Police said the ruling was consistent with evidence gathered by detectives throughout the investigation into Zayden’s injuries and death.

At 3:41 p.m. Oct. 28, police responded to a 911 call of a 4-month-old child not breathing at an apartment in the 700 block of Dempster Street. Zayden Chavez was taken to the hospital with serious injuries that were police determined were consistent with being physically abused. An investigation revealed that Adrian Chavez physically abused Zayden, according to authorities.

Detectives worked closely with the Cook County State’s Attorney Office and medical staff at Ann and Robert H. Lurie Children’s Hospital of Chicago during the investigation.

Adrian Chavez is next due in court on Jan. 27 at the 3rd District Cook County Courthouse in Rolling Meadows.