Two Chicago high school classmates tragically lost their lives after they were shot in the Loop on a busy Friday lunch hour. The area was crowded with tourists, students, workers, and commuters, making the shooting particularly shocking and devastating. The search for suspects continued into the next day.
According to CBS Chicago, the shooting occurred around 12:25 p.m. as a group of students exited Innovations High School. Two vehicles, a dark-colored sedan and a sport-utility vehicle, pulled up and several people opened fire, striking two of the students, ages 16 and 17. The victims, Monterio Williams and Robert Boston, were taken to Northwestern Memorial Hospital, where they later died. The 17-year-old victim, Williams, was described as hardworking and ambitious, while the 16-year-old victim, Boston, was remembered for his infectious smile.
The incident was captured on a nearby surveillance camera, showing the shooters ambushing the victims before fleeing in their vehicle. Another woman had her jacket grazed by a bullet, and the area surrounding the shooting was closed off while police investigated.
Mayor Brandon Johnson and Ald. Bill Conway released statements expressing their condolences to the victims’ families and emphasizing the need to curb gun violence in Chicago. The Cook County State’s Attorney’s office also expressed their sympathy and commitment to working with law enforcement to seek justice.
The tragic shooting has left the community in shock and mourning, with residents and local business owners expressing their concerns about safety in the area. The shooting has prompted a renewed call for action to ensure the safety of Chicago’s residents and visitors.
In the wake of this devastating event, anyone with information about the shooting is urged to contact Belmont Area detectives or submit tips online. The Chicago Police Department continues to investigate the incident in hopes of bringing the perpetrators to justice.