Chicago Felon Freed After Manslaughter Charge in 9-Year-Old’s Train Station Death
CHICAGO — A 52-year-old man with a prior felony record has been released from custody despite being charged in connection with the death of a 9-year-old boy at a downtown train station.
Prosecutors allege that Michael Korosa faces a felony involuntary manslaughter charge after the August 10 incident that led to the death of Elijah Flores. Flores had been under the care of Jonah Soria, 22, his mother’s boyfriend, when the tragedy unfolded at a Green Line station.
The Events Leading to the Fatal Incident
According to reports, the chain of events began when Soria allegedly shoved Flores onto a train platform before attempting to rob another passenger. Witnesses say Soria snatched money and fled, with Flores following behind him. During the escape, Soria lifted Flores onto his shoulders so the boy could keep pace.
At the top of a stairwell, Korosa allegedly struck Soria with a cane, causing both Soria and Flores to tumble down the stairs. The fall left Flores gravely injured when his head struck the pavement, and Soria landed on top of him.
Hospitalization and Tragic Outcome
After the fall, Soria carried Flores onto another train. Witnesses called 911 as the boy became unresponsive. Emergency responders transported Flores to a nearby hospital, where doctors later confirmed his death.
The incident shocked the community, drawing attention not only to the violent circumstances but also to the involvement of adults entrusted with the child’s care. A GoFundMe page was later created in Flores’ memory.
Korosa’s Legal Record and Release
Korosa was arrested on August 30 and also faces a felony aggravated battery charge tied to the same incident. He has a prior conviction for slashing a Walgreens security guard with a box cutter in 2020, for which he served two years in prison.
Despite these past convictions, Korosa was released this Monday while awaiting trial. Jail records also show that just days after the train station incident, he was separately arrested on charges of possessing a controlled substance and drug paraphernalia.
Soria, meanwhile, has not been charged in connection with Flores’ death but was arrested on an unrelated outstanding warrant for retail theft and battery.
Broader Concerns Over Public Safety
The case has reignited debate in Chicago over public safety and crime policies, especially as violent incidents involving children continue to devastate families across the city. The release of a prior felon facing such charges has drawn criticism from residents demanding stronger accountability measures.
National figures have also weighed in. During the same week, former President Donald Trump issued a statement on Chicago’s rising crime, promising intervention if city and state leaders fail to act.
Chicago residents continue to grapple with both the grief of Flores’ loss and the legal questions surrounding Korosa’s release. For many, the case underscores ongoing concerns about crime, justice, and community safety in the city.
Stay connected with ChicagoMusicGuide.com for further updates on this case and other breaking local news.