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Michelle Obama to attend Chicago girl’s funeral

Posted February 07, 2013 1:08 pm

Associated Press

WASHINGTON — A White House official says Michelle Obama will attend Saturday’s funeral for the 15-year-old Chicago girl who was killed after returning home from performing during inauguration festivities for President Barack Obama.

Hadiya Pendleton was killed in a park close to the Obamas’ home on Chicago’s South Side. Police say a gunman hopped a fence and opened fire on a group of young people, killing the drum majorette. No arrests have been made.

White House senior adviser Valerie Jarrett and Education Secretary Arne Duncan, both from Chicago, also will attend the funeral.

Pendleton’s death brought renewed attention to Chicago’s homicide rate and the debate over gun violence in America.

The White House official spoke on condition of anonymity because the first lady’s travel plans had not been formally announced.

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