9-Year-Old with Autism Died After Chicago Train Station Fall — and Man Is Now Charged with Involuntary Manslaughter

A Chicago man has been charged in connection with the death of a 9-year-old boy with autism who was fatally injured after falling down stairs during a fight at a train station.

Michael Korosa, 52, was arrested and charged with involuntary manslaughter, according to the Chicago Police Department. He is accused of injuring 9-year-old Elijah Flores on Aug. 10.

Elijah was later declared brain dead and died, his family confirmed through a GoFundMe.

Fox 32, the Chicago Sun-Times and CBS Chicago reported that prosecutors said Elijah was leaving a CTA train at the Clinton station in the Loop with a 22-year-old man. The 22-year-old allegedly grabbed money from another passenger before exiting the train with Elijah.

The man and his friend, Korosa, then chased after the 22-year-old, according to the Sun-Times. Elijah, who struggled to keep up, was being carried when prosecutors say Korosa struck the 22-year-old in the back of the head with a cane, causing both of them to fall.

CBS reported that after the fall, the 22-year-old gave back the money and carried Elijah onto another train. A passenger later called 911 after the boy became unresponsive.

Police said Korosa is also facing charges of aggravated battery against a transit employee. It is not yet clear whether he has entered a plea or hired an attorney.

“Elijah is a true hero,” wrote a GoFundMe organizer, who launched the fundraiser to help Elijah’s mother. “Elijah is giving the ultimate gift by donating his heart, lungs, and other organs to those in desperate need. His selflessness will go on to save and change many lives.”