CHICAGO, IL — A 27-year-old man was shot in the head and killed late Wednesday night in a shocking act of violence near 35th Street and Rhodes Avenue on Chicago’s South Side. The victim died instantly at the scene as a barrage of gunfire echoed through the Bronzeville neighborhood.
According to Chicago Police, officers responded around 10:15 p.m. to reports of gunshots in the area. When they arrived, they found the man lying on the pavement with a fatal gunshot wound to the head. He was pronounced dead on the scene. His identity has not yet been released pending notification of next of kin.
The volume of gunfire has left residents shaken. Witnesses reported hearing more than 30 shots ring out during the incident, with several nearby homes and vehicles struck by stray bullets.
“It was rapid, nonstop—just boom boom boom,” said one neighbor who lives just steps from the crime scene. “I thought it was fireworks at first, but when I hit the floor and looked out, I knew someone had been killed.”
Chicago Police canvassed the area overnight, collecting shell casings and reviewing surveillance footage from nearby buildings. Detectives say they are actively pursuing leads but have not yet made any arrests. A motive for the shooting remains unclear.
So far, no witnesses have reported seeing a suspect, but authorities believe the victim may have been targeted.
“This level of gunfire shows intent, and it’s deeply troubling,” said a CPD spokesperson during a brief press conference early Thursday morning. “We are committed to bringing those responsible to justice.”
The deadly shooting marks yet another grim chapter in Chicago’s ongoing struggle with gun violence. According to data from the Chicago Police Department, shootings in the city have increased in recent weeks, particularly in high-risk areas.
Community members and anti-violence advocates are expressing outrage and exhaustion.
“How many more lives do we have to lose before something changes?” said Pastor Raymond Tillman, a local faith leader who works with at-risk youth in the neighborhood. “A young man lost his life in the street tonight. He won’t be coming home. His family won’t see him again.”
Police are urging anyone with information about the shooting to come forward. Anonymous tips can be submitted through the CPD tip line.
If you have any information related to this homicide, please contact Chicago Police at (312) 747-8380 or submit tips anonymously at cpdtip.com.