15-Year-Old Boy Lost His Life After Fatally Shot in Drive-By Attack on Chicago’s Near West Side
CHICAGO — A 15-year-old boy was killed in a tragic drive-by shooting Friday afternoon on Chicago’s Near West Side, marking yet another painful loss in a city struggling with youth gun violence.
According to police, the incident occurred around 4:15 p.m. in the 1300 block of West Grenshaw Street, where the teenager was standing on the sidewalk when an unknown vehicle pulled up. Someone inside the car opened fire, striking the boy multiple times — including once in the chest and once in the right leg.
Teen Pronounced Dead at Stroger Hospital
Officers and paramedics rushed to the scene after multiple gunshots were reported in the area. The teen was transported to Stroger Hospital, where he was later pronounced dead despite efforts to save his life.
Police have not released the boy’s name, pending notification of family members. Witnesses say the gunfire caused panic among nearby residents, many of whom ducked for cover as shots rang out along the residential block.
“It happened so fast — we just heard the car speed off right after,” one neighbor told local reporters. “He was just a kid. You could tell he didn’t even have a chance.”
No Arrests Made, Investigation Ongoing
As of Saturday morning, no arrests have been made, and detectives with the Chicago Police Department’s Area Three Bureau of Detectives are investigating. Authorities have not yet determined a motive for the shooting or whether the boy was targeted.
The block where the shooting occurred is near several schools and apartment complexes, leaving parents and residents shaken.
“It’s heartbreaking,” another resident said. “These kids can’t even stand outside without worrying about getting shot.”
Rising Youth Violence in Chicago
This latest shooting adds to a troubling pattern of youth-related gun violence across Chicago neighborhoods this year. According to data from the Chicago Police Department, dozens of victims under the age of 18 have been killed or wounded in shootings since the start of fall.
City leaders and community advocates continue to push for more youth outreach and conflict intervention programs, urging residents to speak up if they know anything about ongoing gun activity.
Police Appeal for Public’s Help
Police are asking anyone with information about the shooter or the vehicle involved to contact detectives or submit an anonymous tip to CPD’s tip line at 833-408-0069.
Authorities have also encouraged residents to use the CPD’s online anonymous tip system to assist in the investigation.
The teen’s death remains under active investigation. Officials say updates will be released as more information becomes available.
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