Four people are dead and 14 others have been hospitalised following a devastating drive-by shooting that took place in Chicago’s upscale River North neighbourhood late Wednesday. At least three people are in critical condition, confirmed by police on Thursday.
The assailants opened fire into a crowd gathered outside a restaurant and lounge, believed to be the venue for a rapper’s album release party. However, the assailant’s vehicle immediately fled the scene. No suspects are currently in custody, according to the police.
Initial police information indicates that 13 women and five men, between the ages of 21 and 32, sustained gunshot wounds. The deceased include two men and two women. Victims were transported to various medical facilities. A spokesperson for Northwestern Medicine confirmed the evaluation of several shooting victims within their emergency department but declined to provide specific figures or conditions.
The incident unfolded in the bustling River North area, a popular nightlife destination, and has sent shockwaves through the community. Authorities have not yet released details regarding the victims’ identities or a potential motive for the attack.
The location of Wednesday’s shooting has a history of violence; in November 2022, a mass shooting occurred on the same block at the nightclub then known as Hush Lounge. That incident, which resulted in one death and three injuries, stemmed from an altercation with a group ejected from the club. Hush Lounge was subsequently closed by police and later reopened as Artis Lounge.
Social media videos confirm a significant police presence at the scene. An X (formerly Twitter) post by “Citizen” indicated that police suspect the incident was a multi-vehicle drive-by shooting. Comments on social media, such as one criticizing Mayor Brandon Johnson for failing to ensure Chicago’s safety and prosperity, reflect public frustration.
(With AP Inputs)