In a shocking incident on Friday night, Chicago police reported that seven teenagers, aged between 13 and 17, were shot in the bustling Loop area. This tragic event occurred shortly after the city's official Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony, which attracted large crowds to downtown Chicago.
The first shooting took place just before 10 p.m. near the 100 block of North State Street, mere steps away from ABC7's State Street studios. Eyewitness reports indicate that a large group was gathered on the sidewalk when sudden gunfire erupted, causing the crowd to panic and scatter. This chaotic scene unfolded in front of the iconic Chicago Theater, with bystanders seeking cover amidst the chaos. Fortunately, police later reported that most of the victims were in good condition and expected to recover.
Approximately an hour after the first incident, police responded to another shooting near Dearborn and Monroe. This shooting occurred around 10:40 p.m. in the 100 block of South Dearborn Street, where two individuals were shot. Tragically, one male victim succumbed to his injuries at Northwestern Hospital, while the second victim, an 18-year-old man, suffered a serious leg injury and remains in critical condition. Mayor Brandon Johnson confirmed during a Saturday morning event that the deceased victim was only 14 years old.
According to police reports, the following individuals sustained injuries during the State Street shooting:
A 14-year-old boy with a gunshot graze wound to the stomach, currently in good condition at Lurie Children's Hospital. A 15-year-old boy with a gunshot graze wound to the left thigh, listed in good condition at Stroger Hospital. A 17-year-old boy with a gunshot graze wound to the left thigh, also in good condition at Stroger Hospital. A 14-year-old girl with a gunshot wound to the right hip, in good condition at Lurie Children's Hospital. A 16-year-old boy with a gunshot wound to the leg, in good condition at Northwestern Hospital. A 14-year-old boy with a gunshot wound to the leg, in good condition at Lurie Children's Hospital. A 13-year-old girl with a gunshot wound to the leg, listed in fair condition at Lurie Children's Hospital.As of now, Chicago police have not confirmed whether the two shootings are related, and no arrests have been made. Alderman Brian Hopkins of the 2nd Ward took to social media late Friday to share alarming details about the incidents, stating, "300 juveniles rioting in the Loop now, at least 5 victims shot, one critical with life-threatening gunshot wound to torso. Multiple police officers attacked and injured with mace and stun guns, at least one officer hospitalized."
These incidents have raised concerns about safety in downtown Chicago, especially during festive events. Community leaders are urging for increased police presence and preventative measures to ensure the safety of all citizens.