1979: Fatal Crash of American Airlines Flight 191
On May 25, 1979, American Airlines Flight 191 experienced a catastrophic crash. The flight, carrying 271 passengers and crew, crashed 31 seconds after takeoff from Chicago’s O’Hare International Airport. An additional two people on the ground lost their lives. This tragedy remains the deadliest passenger airline accident on U.S. soil.
1950: The Green Hornet Streetcar Disaster
A disastrous collision occurred on May 25, 1950, when a Chicago Transit Authority Green Hornet streetcar collided with a fuel truck. The incident happened on State Street near 62nd Street. The crash resulted in gasoline spilling and producing deadly flames. The streetcar’s lack of emergency exits led to the death of 33 passengers and the driver of the fuel truck.
1978: Ted Kaczynski’s First Bombing Incident
Ted Kaczynski, known as the ‘Unabomber’, placed his first known bomb on May 25, 1978. The device was discovered in a parking lot at the University of Illinois Chicago. A passerby returned the package to the individual listed as the sender. Suspicious, the recipient handed it to security, but the bomb exploded, causing injuries to a public safety officer.
1981: ‘Spider Dan’ Scales the Sears Tower
Dan Goodwin, nicknamed ‘Spider Dan’, climbed the Sears Tower on May 25, 1981. Clad in a colorful suit, Goodwin used suction cups and a homemade claw for the feat. Hundreds witnessed the spectacle. After the climb, police arrested him, and he faced charges, later pleading guilty and paying a fine.
1982: Fergie Jenkins Achieves Historic Milestone
On May 25, 1982, Chicago Cubs pitcher Fergie Jenkins joined an elite group by achieving 3,000 strikeouts in Major League Baseball. He struck out Garry Templeton during a game against San Diego, marking a significant milestone in his career.
2011: Final Episode of ‘The Oprah Winfrey Show’
May 25, 2011, marked the airing of the final episode of ‘The Oprah Winfrey Show’. Filmed in Chicago, the show was a pivotal part of television history, with Oprah’s influence continuing to resonate.
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