Residents Report Shattered Windows from Thunderbirds Jets Over Lakeview

CHICAGO, IL — Residents of East Lakeview reported shattered windows in their condo buildings during practice for the Chicago Air and Water Show on Friday morning. The U.S. Air Force Thunderbirds jets flew low over the lakefront, causing a loud boom that coincided with the damage.

Chicago police confirmed they received a 311 report around 10:20 a.m. about shattered windows in the 3100-block of North DuSable Lake Shore Drive. At least four front lobby windows of one building were confirmed broken.

James Baran, a resident and board member, recounted the moment he felt the impact in his unit at 3180 North DuSable Lake Shore Drive. “Out of nowhere, just boom! The glass actually flexed right next to my face,” he said. “I was about a foot from the window.”

The damaged windows included three-plate glass that shattered in the lobby area; upper-floor windows were made of safety glass. Steven Cosgrove, another resident, described the experience: “It was a group of white jets going by… Immediately afterward, I heard a colossal kaboom.”

Residents expressed concern for safety, although no injuries were reported. “I thought there was something wrong with my body, like my extremities were tingling,” said Anna Brailovsky, a resident in the 3900 block of North Lake Shore Drive. “The building shook. It felt like an earthquake.”

The Air Force stated that a review of the practice determined the Thunderbirds jets did not go supersonic at any point during their demonstration. Meanwhile, residents were left to deal with the aftermath and estimated damage costs in the tens of thousands of dollars.

Management at the affected high-rises is in touch with local officials and police regarding the damage. Alderman Bennett Lawson’s office reported receiving multiple complaints and is seeking information from city agencies but had not received responses as of Friday afternoon.

The Air and Water Show is scheduled for Saturday and Sunday, and residents remain wary about the effects of the jet practices.