Chicago Sun-Times Criticized for Exploiting Student's Death

Columnist accused of using tragedy to push political agenda

Apr. 7, 2026 at 7:49pm

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A dimly lit, cinematic painting of a lone newspaper stand on a city street, with warm sunlight and deep shadows creating a melancholy mood that reflects the struggles of the local newspaper industry.The Chicago Sun-Times, once a pillar of local journalism, faces growing criticism for ethical lapses that undermine its credibility.Chicago Today

A recent column in the Chicago Sun-Times has come under fire for allegedly exploiting the murder of a Loyola University student to promote the columnist's views on immigration. Critics say the piece inappropriately used the student's death as a 'prop' to advance a political sermon rather than focusing on the tragedy itself.

Why it matters

The incident highlights ongoing concerns about the state of journalism, particularly at legacy publications, and the need to maintain ethical standards when reporting on sensitive topics and tragic events. It also speaks to the broader fiscal challenges facing the city of Chicago, which continues to grapple with massive pension liabilities.

The details

In his column, Sun-Times writer Neil Steinberg discussed the murder of a Loyola University student, using the tragedy as a springboard to deliver a sermon on immigration policy. Critics argue Steinberg exploited the student's death to push a political agenda rather than honoring the victim and focusing on the crime itself.

  • The column was published on April 7, 2026.

The players

Neil Steinberg

A columnist for the Chicago Sun-Times.

Wirepoints

An Illinois policy research organization that has criticized the city of Chicago's handling of its pension crisis.

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What they’re saying

“Neil Steinberg turns a murdered Loyola student into a prop for his immigration sermon — and calls it journalism.”

— Mark Glennon, Founder, Wirepoints

The takeaway

This incident underscores the need for journalists to exercise sensitivity and ethical judgment when reporting on tragedies, avoiding the temptation to use them as platforms for political agendas. It also highlights the broader fiscal challenges facing Chicago, where pension liabilities continue to strain the city's resources.