Last night an unidentified man was shot in the chest and killed on the 5200 block of Kenmore (approximately 5214). According to police the man in his 20s or 30s, was shot at 9:54p.m and the Cook County Medical Examiner stated that he was pronounced dead at Advocate Illinois Masonic Medical Center at 10:24p.m .

There has been no confirmation on whether this was gang related or not, only that the man was most likely the intended target. No arrests have been made.

There were many reports to Edgeville Buzz. Neighbors immediately expressed both sadness and frustration including Amber Crain, whose fiancee rushed to the scene to help stop the bleeding while ambulances came. She said in her Facebook post, “Tonight… while having friends over to visit, a man was shot one building south of mine. Jeff and I were witnesses. I called 911 while Jeff ran downtstairs to help the victim.” She added, “911 hung up on me after I explained my address and the situation. No one took down Jeff’s name or number. A true witness to the scene. Our personal towel on the sidewalk covered in blood remains.”

Another person, Vincent Stefanelli was leading a group of over twenty children from Winsconsin at nearby Epworth Church’s homeless shelter and found it difficult to reassure the kids about their safety. He said, “There were close to 25 police officers converging on Kenmore ranging from regular squad cars, to officers on bicycles. We were questioned but we didn’t hear or see anything of value, nor did my staff or clients who were equally surprised to see the large police presence.” Mr Stefanelli added, “The kids had already heard about how dangerous Chicago was prior to their arrival. This incident not only reinforced it, but shook them up pretty badly. Needless to say, any positive experience which they had in the shelter was quickly forgotten about.”

It is good to remember that our neighbors are also victims to these crimes. Many of us facing unspeakable tragedies such as this and left to pick up the pieces in homes and communities we love.

***UPDATE***

Alderman Harry Osterman has released a statement about the event saying,

“Last night, shortly before 10:00p.m., there was a gang-related homicide on the 5200 block of N. Kenmore. I have been in close contact with the 20th District Police Commander. According to the police, this individual was an intended target. The victim sustained one bullet wound to the chest and was later pronounced dead at Illinois Masonic. I will have more information regarding this incident later in the week and will convey it to the community.

He added, “The investigation is still ongoing and there have been no arrests made yet. Police have been interviewing witnesses in the area. If you have any information regarding this crime, I encourage you to contact Area North Detectives at 312-744-8200 or 48th Ward Public Safety Liaison Marko Zaric at Marko@48thward.org or 773-784-5277.

I have reached out to Police Superintendent McCarthy and plan to meet with him and Mayor Emanuel about the shootings that have occurred in our community. I will continue to request additional resources to aid the Police in addressing and quelling the senseless violence in our neighborhood and throughout the city.”