A wave of shootings across Chicago has left seven people dead and at least 38 others injured since Friday evening, police said Sunday, casting a shadow over the city during the Juneteenth holiday weekend.
Background
Chicago police recorded at least two dozen separate shooting incidents beginning at 5 p.m. Friday, according to preliminary data released by the department. The violence unfolded across multiple neighborhoods, with some of the most devastating moments occurring on Juneteenth—a federal holiday celebrating the end of slavery in the United States.
Among those killed was a 21-year-old who was shot in the chest Sunday morning and an 18-year-old struck in the armpit Saturday evening. A 50-year-old victim died from a gunshot to the chest Friday, authorities said.
"What should have been a night of celebration and community reflection for Juneteenth was shattered by a horrific act of violence," Mayor Brandon Johnson wrote on social media Saturday. "My thoughts and prayers are with the victims and their loved ones."
The Investigation
One of the most significant incidents occurred Friday evening when at least 12 people in a crowd gathered on a Chicago street suffered gunshot wounds after an SUV pulled up and two occupants began firing, police said. The eight men and four women wounded in that shooting ranged in age from 17 to 47. They were transported to four different hospitals for treatment.
Chicago Police Department data indicates a slight uptick in shooting incidents compared to the same period last year, though violent crime rates have generally declined in recent years alongside national trends.
President Donald Trump renewed his calls for military intervention in the city Sunday morning on Truth Social. "Why isn't Governor Pritzker calling me for help," he wrote. "I could make Chicago a safe City in ONE MONTH." Illinois Gov. J.B. Pritzker's office did not immediately respond to requests for comment.
Earlier Friday, former President Barack Obama and former first lady Michelle Obama welcomed visitors to Obama's presidential center on the city's South Side.
"Violence has no place in our city, and those responsible will be held accountable," Mayor Johnson said.
Key Takeaways
- Seven people were killed and at least 38 injured across approximately two dozen shooting incidents since Friday evening
- Twelve people were wounded when suspects in an SUV opened fire on a crowd during Juneteenth celebrations
- Victims ranged from teenagers to a 50-year-old, spanning multiple neighborhoods throughout the city
- President Trump renewed calls for military intervention; Gov. Pritzker has previously rebuffed such requests
What's Next
Chicago police continue investigating the shootings. Authorities have not identified suspects in several of the incidents and are urging anyone with information to come forward.
The Chicago Police Department is expected to release additional details about the investigations as they develop.