Chicago Mother Killed in Broad-Daylight Ambush Near St. Sabina Church While Baby Survives in Back Seat
CHICAGO, ILLINOIS — A 26-year-old mother was shot and killed Wednesday afternoon after gunmen opened fire on the car she was riding in near St. Sabina Parish in the Auburn Gresham neighborhood, while her baby in the back seat survived unharmed, according to initial reports.
Daylight Shooting Unfolds Near Historic St. Sabina Parish
The shooting occurred around 1:25 p.m. near the historic St. Sabina Parish, a well-known landmark in Auburn Gresham. Police say a white Chevrolet sedan was targeted in a sudden and violent ambush while stopped in the area.
The woman, identified as Gabryel Ayers, 26, suffered multiple gunshot wounds and was transported to Little Company of Mary Hospital, where she was pronounced dead. Her partner, a 27-year-old man who was driving the vehicle, was struck in the arm and buttocks and later listed in good condition at Christ Hospital.
Multiple Gunmen Open Fire on Family’s Vehicle
According to investigators, three suspects dressed in black approached the vehicle and opened fire, unleashing what police estimate to be more than 50 rounds. The sheer volume of gunfire caused the targeted car to crash into a nearby van shortly after the attack.
Witnesses described the scene as chaotic, with gunshots echoing through the block in broad daylight as people nearby ran for cover.
Baby Found Uninjured in Back Seat
Despite the severity of the attack, the baby seated in the back of the car was not injured. Witnesses who rushed to the vehicle after the shooting said the child was crying but physically unharmed.
Some accounts shared publicly described the baby still holding a lollipop while bystanders worked to get the child to safety — a detail that has intensified public reaction to the case.
Dashcam Footage and Police Investigation
Police are reviewing dashcam and surveillance footage that reportedly captured the suspects running up to the car, firing repeatedly, and fleeing the scene. Authorities have not released clear images of the shooters and have not announced any arrests.
Investigators are exploring possible motives, including whether the attack was targeted. While early discussion has mentioned potential gang connections, police have not confirmed any motive or suspects.
Social Media Claims Remain Unverified
Posts circulating online have claimed the suspects fled in a separate red vehicle and suggested the driver may have shared his location shortly before the shooting. Police have not confirmed these claims and have urged the public not to rely on unverified social media speculation as the investigation continues.
Residents near Auburn Gresham say the shooting has once again raised concerns about safety in the area, especially given the timing and location of the attack.
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