Two men are in critical condition after a shooting occurred near a funeral home on the South Side of Chicago on Wednesday morning, according to the Chicago Police Department. The incident took place at Leak & Son Funeral Home in the Chatham neighborhood, specifically in the 7800 block of South Cottage Grove Avenue, shortly before 11 a.m.
The shooting unfolded as mourners were attending the funeral of an 18-year-old individual. As a vehicle drove past the funeral home, an unidentified gunman opened fire on the people outside, causing panic and chaos. Ken Tinzie, the uncle of the deceased, stated that everyone inside the funeral home immediately took cover upon hearing the gunshots. Spencer Leak Jr. from Leak & Sons Funeral Home mentioned that the shooting occurred right in front of the police.
Ken Tinzie, who had traveled from out of state to attend his nephew’s service, revealed that his car was struck by gunfire. One victim was a 38-year-old man who sustained critical injuries to his face, head, and neck. He was rushed to the University of Chicago Medical Center for treatment. Another victim, a 43-year-old man, was shot in the jaw and managed to transport himself to the same hospital while in critical condition.
Eyewitnesses reported that there had been a disturbance outside the chapel prior to the shooting. Leak Jr. confirmed that they had already alerted the police about the funeral and any potential issues that might arise. Felicia Maloney, who witnessed the commotion, expressed her frustration, stating that the violence was tearing families apart and causing immense pain.
Leak Jr. emphasized the devastating impact of such incidents, not only physically but also emotionally and mentally. He called for an end to the cycle of violence that continues to plague the community. At present, no suspects have been apprehended, and area detectives are actively investigating the case.