Charles Leto, 55, Charged with Murder in Douglass Park Shooting That Left One Teen Dead and Another Critically Injured

 

 

 

 

CHICAGO — A 55-year-old Chicago Park District employee has been charged with first-degree murder and attempted murder after allegedly opening fire on two Black teenagers in Douglass Park, killing one and seriously injuring the other. The shooting has sparked outrage and grief throughout the city, especially among community leaders who are calling for full accountability and further investigation into potential racial bias.

The suspect, Charles Leto, of Lake View, was arrested Thursday evening following the incident. Police say Leto, who works as a lifeguard with the Park District, was off-duty at the time of the shooting.

Victims Identified

The victims have been identified as:

  • Marjay Dotson, 15, who was shot in the back and later pronounced dead at Stroger Hospital.
  • Jeremy Herred, 14, who was shot in the neck and remains hospitalized in serious condition. Family members say he is at risk of long-term brain damage and may require ongoing neurological care.

Notably, Herred is a cousin of Laquan McDonald, the 17-year-old whose 2014 police shooting led to national protests and police reform efforts.

 

What Happened

The shooting occurred near the pool and basketball courts at Douglass Park on Chicago’s West Side. According to police and multiple witnesses, Leto allegedly approached the two boys, produced a firearm from a backpack, and opened fire as they attempted to walk away. Witnesses claim the teens were unarmed and not engaging in threatening behavior.

“They were kids—just kids walking in the park,” said one witness. “And now one is dead. We’re sick over it.”

Chicago Police quickly detained Leto at the scene. He was formally charged Friday with:

  • First-degree murder
  • Attempted first-degree murder
  • Aggravated battery with a firearm
  • Aggravated discharge of a firearm

He remains in custody without bail and is expected to appear in court in the coming days.

Calls for Justice and Accountability

Attorney Jeff Neslund, who is representing both families, has called the incident an “execution-style” shooting and is demanding that hate crime charges be considered. According to Neslund, security camera footage and witness statements contradict any claim that Leto was acting in self-defense.

“This was not a justified shooting. These were children. One was running away with a Slurpee in his hand,” said Neslund during a press briefing.

Community leaders, including Pastor Marvin Hunter — the grandfather of Laquan McDonald — also condemned the shooting.

“We are witnessing racialized violence in real time, and we will not be silent,” said Hunter. “This was a cold-blooded act of aggression, and we demand full justice.”

City and Park District Response

The Chicago Park District confirmed that Leto has been suspended pending an internal review. The Douglass Park Pool remains closed, and the city is providing trauma counselors for staff and affected residents.

Mayor Brandon Johnson released a brief statement calling the incident “a tragedy that underscores the urgent need to address gun violence and racial equity in our public spaces.”

Chicago Police are continuing to investigate. Detectives are reviewing surveillance footage, canvassing for additional witnesses, and working with prosecutors to determine if further charges are warranted.

A Grieving Community

As the Dotson and Herred families begin the process of grieving and healing, supporters have launched online fundraisers to help with funeral expenses and medical costs. Activists and residents have also planned a vigil in Douglass Park to honor the victims and demand systemic change.

 

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