In a distressing series of events, a Chicago Public Schools (CPS) student lost their life, and two others were injured in what authorities suspect to be a targeted attack. This incident occurred just blocks away from their North Side School, marking the second fatal shooting of a CPS student within a week. The previous incident involved the tragic death of two boys near their Loop charter school.

Targeted Attack Unfolds Near Senn High School

On the afternoon of the incident, the teen boys from Senn High School were walking in the 1200 block of West Thorndale Avenue when a vehicle approached them. Multiple individuals exited the vehicle and opened fire around 3:35 p.m., according to Chicago police Supt. Larry Snelling during a news conference. The victims were approximately two blocks away from the school at the time of the attack.

Daveon Gibson, aged 16, sustained a fatal gunshot wound to the chest and was pronounced dead at St. Francis Hospital in Evanston. Another 16-year-old boy suffered gunshot wounds to the jaw, chest, and arm, and was in critical condition. A 15-year-old boy was shot in the leg and was in stable condition after being taken to Illinois Masonic Medical Center.

City Response and Call for Justice

Mayor Brandon Johnson, joining Snelling at a press conference, expressed the city’s commitment to offering counseling services to the affected students and their families. He emphasized the urgency to end the cycle of harm and trauma caused by individuals who disregard human life. Mayor Johnson pledged to use the full force of the government to bring those responsible to justice.

Superintendent Snelling, addressing the ongoing investigation, stated the police’s dedication to uncovering the truth behind such crimes and holding the perpetrators accountable. He announced increased police presence at all schools across the city during arrival and dismissal times.

Pattern of Violence Against CPS Students

This tragic incident follows a similar occurrence less than a week prior when two CPS students were killed near their Loop charter school. The victims, Robert Boston, 16, and Monterio Williams, 17, were shot near Washington Street and Wabash Avenue. They attended Innovations High School, a charter school located just blocks from Millennium Park. Superintendent Snelling clarified that there is currently no evidence linking the two attacks.

Another incident on January 22 involved a student being shot outside CICS-Loomis-Longwood, highlighting a disturbing pattern of violence against CPS students.

Addressing Concerns on Youth Violence Prevention

At a public hearing on the West Side, Superintendent Snelling responded to concerns about the Chicago Police Department’s (CPD) efforts to prevent youth violence. He stressed the importance of collaboration between the police department and community members in helping at-risk youth. Snelling encouraged community members to identify and direct struggling children towards the assistance they need, highlighting the joint responsibility in creating a safer environment for students.

Tackling Youth Violence: A Collective Responsibility

In light of these distressing events, it becomes evident that addressing the issue of youth violence requires a concerted effort from both law enforcement and the community. The recurring tragedies underscore the urgency of implementing effective preventive measures and support systems to ensure the safety and well-being of Chicago’s students.