Chicago Reports 128 Sleep-Related Infant Deaths
The Chicago Department of Public Health released 2024 data showing infant suffocation as the second-leading cause of infant death in the city.
Updated on Nov. 5, 2026 in Babies
The Chicago Department of Public Health reported 128 infants died from sleep-related causes in 2024, with 92 of those deaths involving infants found sleeping in an adult bed. The department also held its 52 Empty Cribs installation at Daley Plaza on October 27 to illustrate unsafe sleep environments.
Why it matters
The data highlights persistent disparities, with the sleep-related infant death rate among Black infants roughly 10 times higher than among non-Black infants. Local health officials are using the figures to push safe sleep practices across the city.
Infant suffocation was the second-leading cause of infant death in Chicago in 2024, and 92 of the 128 sleep-related deaths involved infants found in an adult bed. The Near South region's rate was 22 times higher than the Northwest region's, and the report does not explain the factors behind that gap.
The players
Chicago Department of Public Health
The city agency responsible for public health surveillance, disease prevention, and community health programs across Chicago.
The details
The Chicago Department of Public Health displayed empty cribs at Daley Plaza on October 27 as part of its 52 Empty Cribs installation, representing infants lost to sleep-related causes. The installation was designed to show how unsafe sleep environments can contribute to infant suffocation.
Timeline
October 27: CDPH holds the 52 Empty Cribs installation at Daley Plaza.
November 5, 2026: CDPH releases new data on sleep-related infant deaths.
Season Trajectory
The release extends the Chicago Department of Public Health's ongoing safe sleep campaign by adding updated 2024 death counts and regional comparisons. The disparities it documents shape how the department targets outreach in the coming year.
Chicago parents and caregivers can reduce risk by placing infants on their backs on a firm, flat surface without soft bedding, and by avoiding adult bed sharing. The department's safe sleep guidance is available through its official resources.
The takeaway
Placing infants to sleep alone, on their backs, in a crib with a firm mattress and no loose bedding lowers the risk of sleep-related death. Caregivers should follow these steps every night, including naps.
Further reading
Explore more baby health and safety news on Wisevoter.
More information
Learn more about CDPH safe sleep practices information from the city's public health department.
Source note: This article includes information reported by Lawndale News.
