Tragedy on Chicago’s Near West Side: Three Teens Shot in Broad Daylight Near Schools, One in Critical Condition as Police Search for Suspect
CHICAGO, IL — May 2, 2025
A peaceful afternoon on Chicago’s Near West Side was shattered Friday when gunfire erupted in broad daylight, injuring three teenagers and prompting concern among residents, students, and local officials. The shooting took place around 2:45 p.m. in the 200-block of South Hoyne Avenue, just blocks away from several schools and residential buildings.
According to the Chicago Police Department, the victims — a 16-year-old boy, a 15-year-old girl, and a 15-year-old boy — were standing together on the sidewalk when an unknown individual approached and fired multiple rounds at the group. Witnesses in the area reported hearing a rapid succession of shots, sending nearby pedestrians and schoolchildren scrambling for safety.
The 16-year-old boy sustained a gunshot wound to the lower back and was rushed to Stroger Hospital by emergency responders. Authorities described his condition as serious but stable.
The 15-year-old girl was shot in the leg and was also transported to Stroger Hospital, where she was listed in good condition. The second 15-year-old boy, who was also shot in the leg, managed to get himself to Stroger for treatment and was reported to be in good condition.
The shooting took place near Chicago Bulls College Prep, as well as other nearby schools and youth programs. School administrators placed the campus on a brief lockdown until police confirmed the immediate area was secure. No students from the school were believed to be directly involved, though the shooting’s proximity to educational facilities has reignited calls for increased safety measures.
At this time, no arrests have been made, and police have not released any information about a suspect or motive. Investigators were seen canvassing the neighborhood, reviewing surveillance footage, and speaking to potential witnesses Friday evening.
This incident is the latest in a series of gun-related crimes that have plagued Chicago’s neighborhoods, particularly impacting youth. As of early May, city data shows a troubling rise in teen-related shootings compared to the same period last year.
Community leaders and city officials have expressed outrage and concern over the ongoing violence.
“This is unacceptable. Our children cannot continue to be caught in the crossfire,” said a local community organizer who arrived on the scene shortly after the shooting. “We need more outreach, more investment, and immediate action.”
The Chicago Police Department’s Area Four detectives are leading the investigation. They are asking anyone with information to come forward by calling their tip line or submitting anonymous tips to CPD’s online system.
Residents in the area were still visibly shaken hours after the incident, with many expressing fear over the continued presence of gun violence in their neighborhoods — even in broad daylight and near schools.
As the investigation continues, families of the victims are hoping for a full recovery, while city leaders call for both justice and long-term solutions to prevent more young lives from being endangered.
If you have any information about this shooting, contact CPD Area Four detectives at (312) 746-8252 or submit a tip anonymously at www.cpdtip.com.