Who Was the Second Attacker in the DePaul University Hate Crime?

Two Jewish students were beaten. One suspect was arrested. But who was the other?

It all started with a conversation.
Or at least, that’s what it looked like.

Two Jewish students at DePaul University—Max and Michael—were on campus in November 2024, doing what they had been doing for weeks: engaging in respectful dialogue about Israel and the war in Gaza. Both had served in the IDF. Both had been in Gaza. They weren’t looking to provoke anyone. They were looking to explain. To build understanding.

But someone else had a different plan.

---

What Happens When Jews Speak Up?

For weeks, tensions on campus had been escalating. Jewish students who voiced support for Israel—or simply expressed concern over Hamas—were shouted down, shunned, and threatened.

But this wasn’t just shouting.

It was a setup.

In the now-viral footage from November 6th, a masked individual approaches Max under the guise of conversation. He speaks calmly for nearly five minutes. Then, without warning, he lunges—striking Max, beating him, and throwing him to the ground.

Michael, Max’s friend, rushes in to help. That’s when a second attacker emerges from behind—ambushing both of them in a coordinated assault.

Two attackers. Two victims. Both hospitalized. No provocation. Only Jew hatred.

---

Was It Planned?

The footage says yes.

• The first attacker wore a balaclava—he came prepared.

• The second approached from behind, indicating coordination.

• Neither victim had threatened or touched anyone.

• Max and Michael were known on campus—not as agitators, but as Jewish students advocating for dialogue.

This wasn’t a protest gone wrong.
It was a targeted hate crime.

---

What Did the University Say?

DePaul University issued a statement expressing concern—but stopped short of calling it antisemitism.

Meanwhile, Jewish students—already reporting an atmosphere of intimidation—were left with the message:
You're on your own.

• No names.

• No arrests.

• No sense of safety.

---

What Did the Police Do?

The Chicago Police Department opened an investigation. A BOLO (Be On the Lookout) was issued.

Months later, one suspect—20-year-old Adam Erkan—was arrested and charged with two felony hate crimes.

But the second attacker?

• Still unnamed.

• Still uncharged.

• Still walking free.

Until now.