The Chicago Police Department has charged 20-year-old Kimari Tousant, a resident of the 5300 block of W. Chicago Avenue, with the first-degree murder of Jessica Hendricks.

Tousant is also facing a felony count of murder with a strong probability of causing death or injury.

The charges stem from a fatal stabbing incident that occurred in the early hours of December 27, 2024, in the 5300 block of W. Chicago Avenue, located in the Austin neighborhood on Chicago’s West Side.

According to investigators, the fatal confrontation began at approximately 12:15 a.m. when Jessica Hendricks, 20, approached Kimari Tousant outside a residence.

Preliminary reports indicate that a verbal exchange escalated into a physical altercation during which both women sustained injuries inflicted by a sharp object.

Hendricks was transported to Mt. Sinai Hospital, where she was later pronounced dead as a result of her injuries. Tousant, who sustained multiple lacerations to her arm, was treated at West Suburban Hospital and subsequently taken into police custody.

Tousant was arrested at approximately 3:14 a.m. on December 27, 2024, at a location near the site of the incident.

She was formally charged with:

• One (1) felony count of Murder – First Degree
• One (1) felony count of Murder – Strong Probability of Death/Injury

She is currently being held without bond and is scheduled for a detention hearing at 2600 S. California on December 29, 2024.

Area Four detectives are leading the investigation, working to determine the motive and uncover additional details surrounding the fatal altercation. Authorities have not yet disclosed any further information regarding the events that led to the confrontation.

The Chicago Police Department encourages anyone with information about this incident to come forward. Tips can be submitted anonymously by calling 1-888-LOCK-U-UP, using the P3 Tips mobile application, or visiting P3tips.com.

This tragic incident highlights the need for community vigilance and cooperation in ensuring the safety of all residents. The investigation remains ongoing, and further updates will be shared as they become available.

The Chicago Police Department extends its condolences to the family of Jessica Hendricks and reaffirms its commitment to delivering justice. Community members are urged to assist in any way possible as detectives work diligently to resolve this case.