7-year-old girl shot dead in Chicago mass shooting, 7 others injured
PTC News Desk: A joyous family gathering in Chicago's Back of the Yards neighbourhood turned into a nightmare on Saturday night when gunfire erupted, resulting in the death of a 7-year-old girl and leaving seven others wounded, including three children.
The harrowing incident unfolded around 9:30 p.m. on 52nd Street near Damen Avenue. Deputy Chief Don Jerome of the Chicago Police Department revealed that two assailants approached the family, who were gathered outside their home, and indiscriminately opened fire.
Gang Related Mass Shooting ( 8 people shot ) Southside Chicago ... 7 year old girl dead and 2 other children in critcal condition ... April 13, 2024 appx 920pm ... Two Shooters on Foot ... Back of the Yards (Update) Shot Spotter Alert Sent Police to Scene ... Deputy Chief Don… https://t.co/8HmjHQlnAD pic.twitter.com/lGifGklHfy — SubX.News (@SubxNews) April 14, 2024
The victims, predominantly Hispanics residing in the area, suffered grievous injuries. Tragically, a 7-year-old girl, struck in the head, succumbed to her wounds, while a 1-year-old boy and another 7-year-old boy sustained critical injuries. Additionally, five adults, ranging in age from 19 to 40, were also wounded in the attack.
Upon their swift arrival at the scene, law enforcement officers administered urgent first aid measures, applying tourniquets and chest seals to the wounded. The grim aftermath revealed the recovery of eighteen bullet casings, consistent with witness testimonies describing the presence of two shooters on foot.
????BREAKING: Emergency responders have arrived at the scene following a mass shooting involving both children and adults who have been shot in Chicago, IL.
Chicago Police Department reports that a total of eight individuals, including five three children have been shot and… pic.twitter.com/zC7FECciBt — I Meme Therefore I Am ???????? (@ImMeme0) April 14, 2024
Deputy Chief Jerome emphasised the targeted nature of the violence, citing likely gang affiliations. He condemned the perpetrators' actions, underscoring the tragic toll exacted on innocent children. "This was not a random act of violence," Jerome asserted. "Regardless of the motivation, three innocent children were struck tonight, and one tragically succumbed to her wounds. The offenders' actions are horrific and unacceptable in our city."
As the suspects remain at large, authorities continue their intensive investigation, urging anyone with pertinent information to come forward and assist the Chicago Police Department or CPD's Area One detectives in apprehending those responsible for this senseless act of violence.
- With inputs from agencies