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An 11-year-old aspiring dancer was killed protecting his pregnant mother from an alleged attack by her former boyfriend.
Jayden Perkins had a ‘passion’ for performing, his family said, but was killed when he and his eight months pregnant mum were allegedly set upon by a recently released man armed with a knife.
It’s alleged Crosetti Brand, 37, showed up at the Perkins household in Chicago around 8am on March 18 and forced his way indoors.
Jayden’s mum had a relationship with Brand more than 15 years prior.
As Brand began attacking Jayden’s mum, he stepped in to defend her and his unborn sibling – as his five-year-old brother witnessed the attack, it is alleged.
Both Jayden and his mum were rushed to hospital, but Jayden died from his injuries. His mother and the unborn baby are expected to recover.
Chicago Police Superintendent Larry Snelling said: ‘Let me start by saying this is something that should have never happened. The boy’s mother was stabbed multiple times and she had an order of protection against this officer.’
Brand was released on parole roughly a week before he’s alleged to have killed Jayden.
He was serving a 16-year sentence for home invasion and aggravated assault.
Snelling added: ‘Her 5-year-old son was also present and witnessed this attack. We have to imagine what that 5-year-old is going to have to deal with the rest of his life after witnessing something so brutal.’
Jayden was a talented performer, having been the lead in multiple school plays.
Video shows him dancing and smiling alongside others at his school, where he was an honor roll student.
A fundraiser has been set up on Cheddar Up to help Jayden’s family.
It reads: ‘He was known for his love of spending time with friends, playing sports, and performing. His infectious laughter and kind heart touched the lives of everyone he met.
‘In addition to his academic and artistic talents, Jayden was known for his leadership qualities and compassionate nature. He was always willing to lend a helping hand and had a knack for resolving conflicts among his friends. His positive energy and enthusiasm were contagious, and he will be remembered fondly by all who knew him.’
Gus Giordano Dance School, where Jayden was a student, also posted tributes.
Brand is facing more charges: first-degree murder, attempted first-degree murder, home invasion with a dangerous weapon, unlawful use of a weapon by a felon and prior violation of an order of protection.
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