Two individuals have been indicted on hate crime charges following a brutal attack on a teenage girl that took place at a McDonald's in Carpentersville, Illinois, on May 13. Authorities allege the attack was fueled by the victim’s sexual orientation, with both suspects reportedly making derogatory remarks before physically assaulting her.
According to the Kane County State’s Attorney’s Office, 19-year-old John Kammrad now faces multiple felony counts, including aggravated battery, mob action, and hate crime. A juvenile suspect has also been charged with similar counts related to the incident. Initially, the charges did not include a hate crime designation, but after additional investigation, the State's Attorney decided to escalate the charges based on the evidence gathered.
The attack occurred in the 1600 block of South Kennedy Drive, where responding officers found two males assaulting 19-year-old Kady Grass. Witnesses and officials report that the assailants made explicit derogatory comments targeting Grass's sexual orientation before the assault escalated into a violent physical confrontation. Grass was left with severe bruises and injuries across her body and face, with some parts of the attack witnessed by her young cousin, who was present at the time.
Grass later shared her traumatic experience, recounting how the assailants hit her in the jaw and continued to beat her while she was disoriented. She stated that at one point she was rendered unconscious as one of the suspects stomped on her head. Her injuries, which were later shown in images circulated online, depict a harrowing scene of violence and intolerance. She had been visiting Carpentersville for her 13-year-old cousin’s choir concert when the incident occurred, making the assault all the more distressing for her and her family.
Kane County State’s Attorney Jamie Mosser issued a strong statement emphasizing the importance of justice and safety for all community members. She stressed that her office conducted a fair and thorough review before deciding to pursue the hate crime charges. Mosser affirmed that such acts of violence rooted in prejudice would be prosecuted with the utmost seriousness to protect the rights and dignity of every individual.
Carpentersville Police Deputy Chief Kevin Stankowitz echoed the sentiment, stating that the attack serves as a sobering reminder of the urgent need to address discrimination and violence in all its forms. The department is committed to investigating such incidents fully and ensuring that perpetrators are held accountable.
The case has sparked outrage and concern throughout the community and beyond, as many see it as a stark example of the challenges LGBTQ+ individuals still face in public spaces. Advocates have called for increased awareness and stronger legal protections to prevent similar hate-motivated attacks in the future.
Both suspects remain under legal scrutiny as the case progresses through the court system. The juvenile’s identity has not been disclosed due to legal protections, but both individuals are expected to face significant consequences if convicted. The victim, Kady Grass, continues to recover from her injuries while receiving support from family, friends, and members of the public who have rallied around her. A fundraising campaign launched to assist with her recovery has highlighted the widespread support and solidarity being shown in the wake of the assault.
This disturbing case underscores the ongoing need for vigilance, community support, and legal action against those who commit hate-based violence. As the legal process continues, many are hoping for justice not only for Grass but also to send a message that hate crimes will not be tolerated in Kane County or anywhere else.
