West Side Chicago park shooting – A 15-year-old boy has died following a shooting that took place Thursday evening at a park in Chicago’s North Lawndale neighborhood.
According to the Chicago Police Department, the incident occurred around 7 p.m. in the 1400 block of South Sacramento Street. Police said two teenage boys, ages 14 and 15, were together at the park when a man, whom they did not know, approached them and suddenly opened fire.
The 14-year-old victim sustained a gunshot wound to the neck, while the 15-year-old was shot in the back. Both teens were quickly transported to Stroger Hospital for emergency treatment. While the 14-year-old remained in serious condition, the 15-year-old tragically succumbed to his injuries later that evening.
The identities of the two teens have not been released by authorities. At this time, no arrests have been made in connection with the shooting.
Detectives from the Area Four division are currently leading the investigation. They are working to determine the motive behind the shooting and to identify the suspect responsible. As of now, no description of the shooter has been provided, and police have not indicated whether the victims were targeted or if the attack was random.
The incident adds to the growing concerns surrounding youth violence in Chicago, particularly in neighborhoods like North Lawndale, which have experienced persistent issues with gun crime. Community leaders and residents continue to call for more resources and preventative measures to protect young people from violence.
Police are asking anyone with information about the shooting to come forward to assist with the investigation. Tips can be submitted anonymously through the Chicago Police Department’s tip line.
As the community mourns the loss of another young life, city officials and law enforcement stress the urgent need to address the root causes of violence and to ensure the safety of parks and other public spaces where youth gather. More information is expected to be released as the investigation progresses.
