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Police release images of ‘people of interest’ in Jussie Smollett attack

Two figures walking along a snowy sidewalk
Photo: Screenshot/Twitter

Chicago Police have released images of two people of interest in the racist and homophobic attack on actor Jussie Smollett.

Earlier this week, Jussie Smollett was beaten by two white men when he was in Chicago to return to work on the show Empire. Smollett said the attackers used the n-word and “faggot,” place a noose around his neck, and poured bleach on him.

When police arrived, Smollett had cuts and wounds and still had the noose around his neck. He went to the hospital after talking with police.

The attackers were wearing ski masks and have not yet been identified. In order to help with their search, Chicago Police have released an image from a camera that they believe could show the attackers.

Related: ‘Empire’ star Jussie Smollett’s new single is the ultimate Trump diss track

The camera did not capture the attack itself, but police said that they are still reviewing camera footage from the area.

Chicago Police have also confirmed that a threatening letter was sent to Fox Studios in Chicago, where Smollett works, on January 22.

The letter, according to a picture posted on the pop culture site That Grape Juice, said, “You will die, black fag.” A picture of a stick figure with a noose around its neck being shot was also drawn on the paper.

Danny Strong, the creator of Empire tweeted a statement about the attacks, calling the assailants “cowards.”

Smollett himself has not yet spoken publicly about the attack.

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