Chicago — A mass shooting late Wednesday outside a restaurant in the River North neighborhood left four people dead and 14 others injured. Mayor Brandon Johnson denounced the violence as “senseless and cowardly” during a news conference on Thursday, emphasizing the urgent need for community safety.
The incident occurred around 11 p.m. following a crowded album release party for local rapper Mello Buckzz at Artis Restaurant and Lounge, located at 311 W. Chicago Ave. According to Chicago Police Superintendent Larry Snelling, a vehicle approached the venue, and at least one shooter opened fire into the crowd without regard for who might be struck.
“They didn’t care who was hit. In just a matter of seconds, 18 people were shot, and four lost their lives,” Snelling said, noting that no arrests have yet been made. Investigators suspect that the intended target was the rapper, who had left the venue shortly before the shooting began.
This establishment, which opened in April, is located at the same site where a previous mass shooting incident prompted the city to shut down a nightclub two years ago. Snelling revealed that the city has issued a summary closure of Artis as the investigation continues. “It will remain closed until we determine the facts surrounding this incident,” he stated.
Witness accounts underline the sheer chaos of the scene, with one cab passenger recounting seeing an officer carrying a blood-soaked young woman to safety. “It was a chaotic scene with so many young people gathered. I thought they were just having fun,” said Roger Tanner.
Police indicated that the victims were transported to several nearby hospitals, including Stroger and Northwestern Memorial Hospital. Among the critically injured were two women aged 26 and 27, who were fatally shot in the chest. Four others remain in critical condition, including individuals with multiple gunshot wounds.
Rowena Mendez, who arrived for her shift at a nearby Dunkin’, initially mistook the scene for a movie set, only to quickly realize the gravity of the situation. “Blood was everywhere; it was devastating,” she said, noting the harrowing sight of scattered personal belongings in the aftermath.
Local officials expressed their frustration over the incident. Alderman Brendan Reilly emphasized the need for stricter regulations, particularly since the restaurant had previously assured the city that it would focus on community engagement and safety. “It’s frustrating that a food license was issued when there was no liquor license. They exploited the system,” Reilly remarked.
Based on recovered shell casings, police believe there were possibly three shooters involved in what appears to be a gang-related incident. Investigators are continuing to gather evidence and interview witnesses.
In response to the violence, Mayor Johnson lamented the shocking nature of the attack. “Shootings like this remind us of how far we still have to go. We will not let these acts of violence define our city,” he stated.
As community members process the shock of the incident, the restaurant’s management expressed their heartbreak in a statement, affirming their commitment to creating a safe gathering space for diverse communities in River North. With the ongoing investigation, residents and officials alike hope for swift justice and lasting solutions to curb such violence in the future.