NEW DELHI: In a tragic incident on Sunday, eight people were shot, including a young girl who lost her life, in what Chicago police suspect to be gang-related violence in city’s South Side.
The 7-year-old victim, whose identity has not been disclosed, was fatally shot in the head. Additionally, a 1-year-old boy and a 7-year-old boy sustained multiple gunshot wounds and are currently in critical condition, according to deputy chief Don Jerome of the Chicago Police Department in US.

The remaining victims, aged between 19 and 40, were also injured in the gunfire.

The shooting occurred around 9 pm (local times) on a block of 52nd Street near Damen Avenue, where the victims had gathered for a family event. Upon receiving reports of gunfire, police officials swiftly responded, administering life-saving measures such as tourniquets and chest seals before transporting the wounded people to nearby hospitals, courtesy of the Chicago Fire Department.

Deputy chief Jerome, addressing the media at the scene, revealed that witness testimonies suggested the presence of two assailants on foot. While investigations are still underway, law enforcement is treating the incident as likely gang-related.
“This was not a random act of violence. It was likely gang-related,” said Jerome during the news briefing. “Regardless of the motivation for this incident, three innocent children were struck tonight and one of them tragically succumbed to her wounds. The offenders’ actions, make no mistake, are horrific and unacceptable in our city.”
(With inputs from agencies)