UPDATE: As 2025 draws to a close, Chicago faces a year filled with profound highs and tragic lows that will resonate for years. From the historic election of a Chicago-born pope to devastating crime incidents, this year has been pivotal for the city and beyond.
In January, excitement buzzed as the Chicago Bears appointed Ben Johnson as their new head coach, a move that invigorated fans eager for change. His immediate accolades from quarterback Caleb Williams signaled a hopeful era for the struggling franchise.
However, the city also faced turmoil in February when beloved matriarch of the Chicago Bears, Virginia McCaskey, passed away at age 102. Her legacy remains a cornerstone of the team. In stark contrast, the political landscape saw turmoil as former Illinois governor Rod Blagojevich received a full pardon from President Donald Trump, while another political titan, Michael Madigan, was sentenced to prison for corruption.
March brought sorrow to Highland Park as Robert Crimo III pleaded guilty for a mass shooting at the Fourth of July parade, a tragedy that shook the community and left seven dead. Also in that month, authorities located the remains of Karen Schepers, a missing woman since 1983, finally bringing closure to her family.
April witnessed a harrowing hate crime at DePaul University, where two Jewish students were attacked, leading to charges being filed. The community mourned the passing of Steve “Mongo” McMichael, a Chicago Bears legend who died after a courageous battle with ALS.
May was marked by the loss of another political figure, with the death of former governor George Ryan at 91. His legacy was complex, highlighted by his controversial halt of the death penalty overshadowed by corruption convictions.
In a monumental moment for the city, Chicago celebrated the election of Pope Leo XIV, born Robert Francis Prevost in a local hospital. His election was a source of immense pride for many, including students at Our Lady of Mount Carmel Academy, who had participated in a mock conclave.
June brought significant upheaval in Chicago Public Schools, resulting in the exit of CEO Pedro Martinez amid financial disputes. Additionally, fears of an immigration crackdown escalated as several local alders protested against federal agents in the South Loop.
Tragedy struck the Chicago Police Department when Officer Krystal Rivera was killed by an accidental shooting during a pursuit, a reminder of the dangers faced by law enforcement. Later that month, a mass shooting outside an album release party in River North left 18 people injured, prompting urgent discussions on gun violence.
As summer unfolded, the city buzzed with political drama when dozens of Texas Democratic lawmakers arrived to thwart a Republican redistricting plan. The Bears hinted at a potential move from Soldier Field to Arlington Heights, stirring controversy among fans.
September saw the launch of Operation Midway Blitz, a federal immigration enforcement initiative leading to hundreds of arrests amid fierce community backlash. The assassination of political activist Charlie Kirk during an event in Utah sent shockwaves through the state.
In October, Loyola University mourned the passing of Sister Jean, a beloved figure in college basketball, while tragedy struck candidate Darren Bailey as a helicopter crash claimed three family members. The month also featured a second-degree murder conviction for a former sheriff’s deputy who shot Sonya Massey.
November delighted residents with a rare appearance of the northern lights over Chicago, yet the month was marred by a shocking CTA attack where a woman was set ablaze, leading to widespread calls for improved safety measures.
In December, the city announced a major reconstruction project for the State and Lake ‘L’ station set to close for three years. As the year concludes, Mayor Brandon Johnson faced a contentious budget battle, ultimately avoiding a city government shutdown by passing an alternative plan amidst fierce debate.
As we reflect on 2025, it is clear that this year has been transformative, marked by both remarkable achievements and heartbreaking losses. The developments of this year will undoubtedly shape Chicago’s future.
