Harvey, IL – A house party in Harvey, Illinois, erupted into gunfire over the weekend, leaving two people dead, including one of the suspects, and authorities now believe a second fatal shooting hours later was an act of retaliation tied to the same ongoing feud.
Gunfire Erupts at Des Plaines Street House Party
At approximately 8:03 p.m. on Saturday, Harvey police responded to reports of a mass shooting in the 14400 block of Des Plaines Street. According to investigators, two shooters opened fire on a gathering of partygoers, striking five people — including a 4-year-old boy.
While the child suffered non-life-threatening injuries, the other four victims were taken to a nearby hospital with unknown conditions. Officials later confirmed that their conditions were stabilized.
Concealed Carry Holder Fatally Shoots Suspect
In a dramatic turn, a licensed concealed carry holder attending the party returned fire, fatally striking one of the attackers. The Cook County Medical Examiner identified the deceased suspect as 24-year-old Charles Lipsey.
The second suspect, who was wounded in the exchange, was transported to the hospital and subsequently taken into police custody.
Second Man Found Shot Dead Hours Later
Roughly eight hours after the party shooting, around 4:40 a.m., police were called to the 200 block of Calumet Boulevard after reports of additional gunfire. There, officers discovered 28-year-old Jeremiah R. Adutu-Bofah inside a minivan, suffering from multiple gunshot wounds. He was pronounced dead at the scene.
A second person in the van was unharmed, authorities confirmed.
Police Say Violence Stems from Gang Rivalry
Harvey Police Chief Cameron Biddings addressed the community, stating that the two shootings are connected and part of a longstanding conflict between two groups known to law enforcement.
“These are not random acts of violence or anonymous individuals,” Biddings said. “This violence stems from an ongoing conflict between individuals with a long and disruptive history within our city.”
The department is now actively pursuing charges and considering additional enforcement strategies to deescalate the feud.
“We will not allow a senseless rivalry to hold this city hostage,” Biddings added. “Anyone who continues to endanger this community will be held accountable.”
Public Urged to Come Forward
Police emphasized that no ongoing threat exists to the public at this time. However, officials are encouraging anyone with information about either shooting to come forward.
Tips can be submitted anonymously to the Harvey Police Department.
Do you think more cities should take proactive steps to address ongoing gang rivalries? Share your thoughts in the comments.
