US mass shooting: 4 dead, 14 wounded in Chicago River North
Police at the scene of a shooting in Chicago River North neighborhood. Photograph: Tyler Pasciak LaRiviere/Chicago Sun-Times via AP
A horrific act of violence unfolded late Wednesday night in Chicago’s bustling River North neighborhood, leaving four people dead and 14 wounded in a mass drive-by shooting. The incident occurred around 11 p.m. near the 300 block of West Chicago Avenue, outside Artis Restaurant and Lounge, an area known for its vibrant nightlife.
Police confirm that a dark-colored car drove past the establishment, and one or more shooters opened fire into a crowd gathered outside. The vehicle immediately fled the scene, and as of Thursday morning, no arrests have been made.
The Scene of Chaos and Devastation
Witnesses described a scene of “absolute chaos.” “Traumatizing. I’m just shook,” one female witness recounted. Pastor Donovan Price, who was on the scene shortly after the gunfire erupted, stated, “From people screaming, to blood on the streets, to people laying on the streets. Just a massive police presence. Just horrific. More than I’ve ever seen.”
The shooting took place as an album release party for Chicago rapper Mello Buckzz was concluding at Artis Restaurant and Lounge. A worker at the nightclub confirmed that a large group of people were heading outside when the tragedy struck. Mello Buckzz later posted on Instagram, mourning the loss of friends and asking for prayers, stating, “My heart broke into so many pieces. I don’t wish this typa pain on nobody.”
Victims Identified and Conditions Reported
Police have confirmed that all 18 victims ranged in age from 21 to 32. Among the deceased are a 24-year-old man, a 25-year-old man, a 26-year-old woman, and a 27-year-old woman. While identities have not been officially released, the family of one victim identified her as Taylor Walker, 26.
Of the 14 wounded, three are in critical condition, one is in serious condition, one is in fair condition, and nine are in good condition. Police officers, without waiting for ambulances, took some of the victims to nearby hospitals, including Stroger Hospital and Northwestern Memorial Hospital, where family and friends gathered overnight for updates.
Artis Restaurant and Lounge Statement
Artis Restaurant and Lounge, described as a queer- and Black-owned Creole establishment founded by Brandi and Brittany Artis, released a statement expressing their profound shock and grief. “Last night, an act of violence occurred within the vicinity of our restaurant — and it shook us deeply,” the statement reads. “Artis was created as a safe space. A space where Black, Brown, Queer, and allied communities could gather, be celebrated, and feel at home in River North… Our hearts are with the victims and their loved ones.” The restaurant affirmed its commitment to working with authorities and ensuring the continued safety of its community.
Ongoing Investigation and City Response
The Chicago Police Department’s investigation is ongoing, and a motive for the shooting remains unknown. Sources indicate that investigators believe multiple shooters may have been involved.
Chicago Mayor Brandon Johnson and Police Superintendent Larry Snelling are scheduled to hold a press conference at noon Thursday to address the tragic incident. This mass shooting marks one of the worst in Chicago in recent years, drawing stark comparisons to a previous shooting in 2022 at the same location, then operating as a different bar, which also resulted in fatalities and injuries.
The community mourns this devastating loss of life and hopes for swift justice for the victims and their families.