Chicago, Illinois – Chicago police are investigating a deadly early-morning mass shooting in the city’s River North neighborhood that left one man dead and three others critically injured after gunmen opened fire as the group was getting into a vehicle.
The shooting occurred around 2:35 a.m. Sunday in the 400 block of North LaSalle Drive, near Hubbard Street, a busy nightlife and residential corridor in River North.
What Happened in the River North Shooting
According to Chicago Police Department, four unidentified suspects approached the victims on foot as they were entering a car. The suspects allegedly pulled out firearms and opened fire, striking all four men before fleeing the scene.
Police said the suspects then got into a vehicle and drove away, but investigators have not released a description of the car or the individuals involved.
Victims Identified and Hospitalized
Authorities said a 34-year-old man suffered multiple gunshot wounds and was transported to Northwestern Memorial Hospital, where he was later pronounced dead.
Three other men were hospitalized in critical condition:
- A 36-year-old man shot in the chest
- A 43-year-old man shot in the back
- A 35-year-old man who suffered multiple gunshot wounds throughout his body
All victims were taken to Northwestern Memorial Hospital for emergency treatment.
Heavy Police Presence and Evidence Collection
For much of the morning, police activity remained intense along North LaSalle Drive. Investigators were seen focusing on a green Lamborghini near the scene, which was surrounded by numerous evidence markers. It remains unclear whether the vehicle is directly connected to the suspects or victims.
Despite the area being covered by numerous security cameras, police have not yet released images or descriptions of the shooters.
Witnesses Describe Chaos and Fear
Residents living in nearby apartments and condominiums said they were awakened by the sound of gunfire.
“There was a little pause, and then there was like a ton more,” one witness said. “I was like, ‘Oh gosh,’ that’s not sounding great.”
Another witness, Elias Ylonen, said he and others saw victims being loaded onto stretchers as emergency lights filled the street. Ylonen and Katarina Kerner, visitors from Europe staying with family nearby, said the incident was shocking.
“This is something that would be a national headline if it happened in Finland,” Ylonen said.
Kerner added that the lack of information about the suspects’ getaway vehicle was especially concerning, given how close the shooting occurred to residential buildings.
Rising Shooting Numbers on the Near North Side
Data from Mayor Brandon Johnson’s office show a troubling trend. So far this year, there have been 41 shootings on the Near North Side, up from 26 during the same period last year, and roughly in line with 2023 totals.
Residents expressed frustration and fear, noting that violence appears increasingly unpredictable.
“It definitely makes me not want to live so close to all that,” said local resident Mary Kate Meyer. “It feels like it happens everywhere in Chicago.”
$10,000 Reward Offered for Information
On Sunday, Cook County Crime Stoppers announced a $10,000 reward for information leading to an arrest in the case.
“This was a brazen and violent act that took one life and left three others fighting for their lives,” said Paul Rutherford, executive director of Cook County Crime Stoppers. He urged anyone with information to come forward, noting that tips can be provided anonymously by calling 1-800-535-STOP or submitting information online.
Investigation Ongoing
As of Sunday afternoon, no arrests have been made, and police have not released suspect descriptions. Detectives continue to review surveillance footage and gather witness statements in hopes of identifying those responsible.
Conclusion
The River North shooting underscores ongoing concerns about gun violence in one of Chicago’s most active neighborhoods. As investigators work to identify the suspects, community members are left grappling with fear and uncertainty following another deadly overnight attack.
Anyone with information is encouraged to contact police or Crime Stoppers. Share your experiences or concerns in the comments below.
