Seven teenagers, with the youngest being only thirteen years old, were shot during a disturbance at a Christmas tree lighting event in the United States. The incident occurred in Chicago’s Loop shortly after the city’s official Christmas light ceremony at Millennium Park. The teenagers, aged between 13 and 17, were shot around 9:50 pm near State and Randolph streets, according to the Chicago Police Department. Alderman Hopkins, who represents the second ward district, reported that multiple police officers were also attacked and injured with mace and stun guns, resulting in at least one officer being hospitalized.
The free event was reportedly disrupted by approximately 300 young individuals, as stated by Hopkins. The situation was described as chaotic, with 300 juveniles causing disturbances in the Loop area, resulting in at least 5 victims being shot, one of whom is in critical condition with a life-threatening gunshot wound to the torso. Courtney Spinelli, a reporter with WGNNews, mentioned that officers observed a large group gathering on the streets before gunshots were heard near the Chicago Theatre. The youngest victim, a 13-year-old girl, sustained a gunshot wound to the leg but is in fair condition. Another female victim, aged 14, was shot in the hip. The remaining victims, all boys, suffered gunshot wounds to the leg or minor graze wounds and are reported to be in good condition.
Eyewitness Linda Dixon recounted leaving the Chicago Theatre as police arrived at the scene. She described the chaotic scene where people were running in all directions to avoid potential danger. Dixon expressed dismay at the situation, highlighting the disappointment of such violence occurring during the holiday season when people are supposed to be celebrating and enjoying themselves.
Following the initial incident, a second shooting took place near Adams and Dearborn streets half an hour later. An 18-year-old man was shot in the leg and sustained serious injuries, while another male victim succumbed to multiple gunshot wounds and was pronounced dead in the hospital.