CHICAGO (WLS) — A 21-year-old Chicago man is facing a series of charges, including multiple hate crime counts and arson, after authorities say he burned a cross in Grant Park last week.
Chicago police identified the suspect as Merlin Lu, 21, of Chicago.
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A spokesperson for the Chicago Fire Department said crews were called to the area near Columbus and Balbo drives at about 2:30 p.m. on June 9, where they put out the fire.
Police had earlier released photos of a person of interest who was allegedly seen running from the scene. About a week later, investigators said that person of interest had been taken into custody.
On Wednesday evening, police said Lu had been arrested in connection with the incident. Authorities said he was taken into custody Monday at his home in the 1400 block of South Halsted Street by Chicago police and the U.S. Marshals Service.
According to police, Lu has been charged with damaging property, arson, two counts of hate crime, disorderly conduct, reckless conduct, criminal damage to property, and cross burning to intimidate.
The burning cross is widely considered to be a symbol of racist hatred.
Father Michael Pfleger of St. Sabina Church had offered a $10,000 reward for information leading to a suspect, and the investigation also involved the FBI and Illinois State Police.
Chicago police said Lu will appear in court Thursday.
It’s unclear if Lu may eventually face federal charges in addition to these state charges.
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