Multiple Men Injured in Drive-By Shooting Near Puerto Rican Festival in Chicago
Incident unfolds post-festival; police seek public assistance
Chicago, IL – A festive evening took a tragic turn as a drive-by shooting left three men injured near the conclusion of the Puerto Rican Festival on Saturday night. The incident occurred around 10 p.m. in the 1100-block of North California Avenue, part of the Northwest Side neighborhood known for its vibrant community events.
Details of the Incident
According to Chicago Police, the victims were gathered outside when a vehicle approached and opened fire. The circumstances surrounding the shooting remain unclear, as the suspect vehicle fled the scene before officers arrived.
- Victims:
- A 27-year-old man sustained gunshot wounds to both legs.
- A 42-year-old man was shot in the left calf.
- A 45-year-old man suffered a gunshot wound to his right leg.
Fortunately, all three victims are reported to be in stable condition and expected to recover.
Community Impact
The Puerto Rican Festival, a celebratory event promoting cultural heritage, was wrapping up when the violence erupted. Witnesses expressed shock and disbelief at the occurrence of such an event in the midst of a community celebration.
Local resident Maria Gonzalez, who attended the festival with family, remarked, "We come together to celebrate our culture, and to see something like this happen is heartbreaking. It shouldn’t happen anywhere, especially here."
Investigation Ongoing
As of now, no arrests have been made, and investigators are actively searching for leads. Police have encouraged anyone with information about the shooting or the identity of the assailants to come forward to aid in the investigation.
Authorities remind the community to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activity to the police.
This incident serves as a solemn reminder of the challenges many neighborhoods face regarding gun violence, especially during community gatherings intended to strengthen ties and celebrate cultural heritage.
As the investigation unfolds, residents are left hoping for answers and increased safety in their community.
This story will be updated as more information becomes available. For live updates, follow us on social media or check back on our website.
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Bio: Marcus is a community-based journalist passionate about reporting impactful stories that matter most to readers.