CHICAGO, IL – A somber morning unfolded in River North as the city grapples with a mass shooting that left 18 people injured and four dead. The attack occurred outside a rapper’s album release party, plunging the community into shock and sorrow.
City officials report that the assailants fired from a black SUV at attendees leaving the celebration. The victims, all in their 20s and 30s, were gathered outside Artis Lounge on Chicago Avenue when the violence erupted.
Witnesses recount the chaos that ensued as gunfire rang out, leaving many scrambling for safety. Among the deceased were two men and two women, including the boyfriend of the event’s host, female rapper Mello Buckzz.
Mello Buckzz, who was celebrating her album release, expressed her heartbreak on social media, offering prayers for the victims and their families. Her message conveyed the weight of the tragedy as she sought solace in her faith.
The River North neighborhood, known for its vibrant nightlife, was jolted by the incident. This is not the first time violence has struck this location; a similar incident occurred in November 2022 when the venue operated under a different name.
As police continue their investigation, the search for the three suspects involved in the shooting remains a top priority. Authorities are urging anyone with information to come forward.
At Northwestern Memorial Hospital, the scene was equally distressing as family members gathered for news of their loved ones. Several victims remain hospitalized, with some undergoing surgery.
The community is on edge, awaiting further details from a scheduled press conference that will shed light on the unfolding investigation and the city’s response to the tragedy.
The River North shooting underscores ongoing concerns about gun violence in Chicago, prompting city leaders to call for swift action and increased safety measures.