CHICAGO — At least 12 people were shot late Friday night in a mass shooting on Chicago’s South Side, prompting a large police response and an ongoing investigation.
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According to authorities, the shooting occurred in the city’s Back of the Yards neighborhood as a crowd had gathered in the area. Police said an SUV pulled up near the group and at least two individuals inside the vehicle opened fire before fleeing the scene.
The victims range in age from 17 to 47 years old. Emergency responders rushed multiple victims to area hospitals for treatment. Officials reported that at least two victims were listed in critical condition, while others sustained injuries ranging from minor to serious.
Witnesses described a chaotic scene as gunfire erupted, sending people running for cover. Several streets were temporarily closed as investigators collected evidence and searched for surveillance footage that could help identify those responsible.
The shooting took place during Juneteenth celebrations, a holiday that commemorates the end of slavery in the United States. The violence has left residents and community leaders shaken as many had gathered throughout the city to celebrate the occasion with family and friends.
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Chicago police have not announced any arrests, and a motive for the shooting remains unclear. Detectives are interviewing witnesses and reviewing available video footage as the investigation continues.
Community leaders are once again calling for an end to gun violence and urging anyone with information about the shooting to come forward. Authorities are asking anyone who may have witnessed the incident or captured video of the scene to contact Chicago police.
The investigation remains ongoing, and additional details are expected to be released as they become available.
