CHATHAM, IL – A shooting incident resulting in the deaths of two 14-year-old boys is under investigation by Chicago Police. Discovered in a Chatham community alleyway on Sunday, speculation has arisen regarding a possible link to local auto thefts.
Residents have expressed concern over escalating car theft and violence in the area, describing frequent theft attempts and consistent gunfire. The fatal shooting occurred around 2:30 p.m. on Sunday off Cottage Grove Avenue. The teenagers, one identified as Rashad Dorsey and the other currently unidentified, were found in broad daylight. Prior to the discovery, dispatch reports indicated a call from a local resident who had heard around 14 shots fired nearby.
Andrew Boone, a local resident, expressed shock about the event, initially believing the victims to be adults. As he said, “I thought they were grown. No, I didn’t know that they were 14 until a little later.”
Police initially intervened due to reports of an auto theft in the area involving four teenagers. However, it remains unclear whether the two deceased boys were implicated in the reported crime or if the shooter has connections to other local incidents.
According to Boone, auto theft in the neighborhood is a recurring issue, prompting constant vigilance among residents. Speaking about the frequency, he claimed theft attempts were occurring almost “back to back.”
Amongst the constant crime and violence, Boone believes more needs to be done to provide teenagers with positive avenues for community involvement and income opportunities. This shooting brings the number of murdered children aged 12-17 in Chicago this year to 54, highlighting the growing necessity for action.