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Murder Charge Filed After Jessica Vilaythong, Worker At Chase Bank Branch In River North, Dies In Stabbing

CHICAGO (CBS) -- Jessica Vilaythong, 24, an employee at a Chase Bank branch in River North, has died after she was stabbed in the neck Wednesday morning.

The attack happened at the bank branch in the 600 block of North Dearborn Street in the River North neighborhood shortly after 11 a.m.

Jawaun Westbrooks
Jawaun Westbrooks (Chicago Police)

On Wednesday, authorities said a person of interest was being questioned in connection with the attack after being apprehended at State and Madison streets downtown. On Friday, police said Jawaun Westbrooks, 35, was charged with first degree murder. In 2012, he was charged with aggravated battery after he attacked two women with a hammer, hitting them in the face and demanding their purses.  He was found not guilty by reason of insanity, police said.

"We are devastated by the passing of our colleague Jessica Vilaythong and extend our deepest sympathies to her family and loved ones during this incredibly difficult time." Chase said in a statement. "Jessica was a wonderful person and valued employee. She was extremely outgoing, passionate, hardworking, and quick to help clients. We will miss her greatly."

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