CHICAGO, IL – A shocking incident unfolded early Sunday morning at a Halloween party on the city’s West Side, leaving 15 people injured by gunfire. The shooting occurred just after 1 a.m. in the 1200 block of South Pulaski Road in the North Lawndale neighborhood, as captured by surveillance footage. Among the victims, there were six women and nine men, ranging in age from 26 to 53 years old.
Two of the victims, a 26-year-old woman and a 48-year-old man, were transported to Mt. Sinai Hospital in critical condition, while the others were initially reported to be in good to fair condition. Approximately 100 individuals had gathered to celebrate Halloween, with chaos ensuing as shots rang out. The video shows party-goers fleeing and dodging traffic on the busy street at 13th and Pulaski.
The event had been hosted by three local social media comedians and was reportedly winding down when the dispute erupted. Attendees mentioned that security checks for firearms were conducted at the door. Tywon Tunstall, a fellow comedian present at the party, condemned the senseless act of violence.
Chicago Police quickly identified and apprehended the suspected shooter, recovering the weapon used in the incident. According to 10th District CPD Commander William Betancourt, victims recounted that the suspect had been ejected from the party but returned a few minutes later to open fire.
Witnesses like Will Ricks observed the aftermath, including the assailant fleeing from the scene with a firearm. Ricks, who later learned that a friend had been among the injured, expressed concern and support for his friend’s recovery.
The North Lawndale community came together to heal, gathering for prayers later on Sunday. City officials revealed that the party location had a history of hosting “unlicensed events,” prompting the Chicago Police Department to prepare a summary closure order to shut it down.
In response to the tragic incident, CPD is launching an emergency assistance center at 1241 South Pulaski Road, open from noon to 7 p.m. on Tuesday, to provide support for those affected by gun violence. Detectives are actively investigating the shooting.