Deadly Shootout Outside UIC-Halsted CTA Station: 61-Year-Old John Felmister Killed in Public Walkway After Verbal Altercation Escalates into Gunfire; Investigation Underway, No Charges Filed Yet
Chicago, IL – April 15, 2025 — A deadly shootout between two armed men outside the UIC-Halsted CTA station has resulted in the tragic death of 61-year-old John Felmister, a victim of senseless violence that erupted over a verbal altercation. The exchange of gunfire occurred during the early evening hours of April 14, 2025, leaving Felmister fatally shot on a public walkway near the intersection of Halsted Street and I-290.
The Incident
According to the Chicago Police Department, the incident began as a confrontation between two men, one of whom was a Chicago Transit Authority (CTA) employee. The two exchanged words outside the UIC-Halsted station, which quickly escalated into a violent dispute. The argument, which remains under investigation, led to both individuals drawing firearms and firing shots at one another.
Witnesses report seeing both men firing near the pedestrian bridge above I-290, an area that sees significant foot traffic due to its proximity to the CTA station and nearby facilities. The first round of gunfire was reportedly heard at approximately 6:30 p.m., with the two men moving onto the bridge where the second round of shots was fired. Felmister, who was shot in the head, collapsed shortly afterward on the walkway, where he was pronounced dead at the scene by responding officers.
The CTA employee was taken into custody for questioning but has not been charged with murder. Police have yet to reveal the identity of the employee involved in the shooting, nor have they disclosed whether either of the men was known to each other prior to the altercation. Authorities are examining video surveillance footage from nearby buildings and the CTA station as part of their ongoing investigation.
Investigation and Lack of Charges
Despite the devastating outcome of the shootout, no murder charges have been filed as of this time. Police have indicated that the investigation remains in its early stages, with detectives trying to piece together the exact chain of events that led to the fatal shooting. Although Felmister’s death has been ruled a homicide, the circumstances surrounding the altercation and whether self-defense or other factors might apply remain under review.
A spokesperson for the Chicago Police Department stated, “We are thoroughly investigating all aspects of this tragic event. We’re speaking with witnesses, examining the available evidence, and gathering information from all parties involved.”
Victim Identified
John Felmister, the victim, was a 61-year-old man from Chicago, known to his friends and family as a gentle and kind individual. His sudden and tragic death has left his loved ones devastated. Those close to Felmister describe him as someone who enjoyed spending time outdoors and had a reputation for being a reliable and compassionate friend.
Family members have issued a statement expressing their shock and heartbreak over his death, calling it a senseless act of violence. “We just want our family member back. We never thought something like this would happen,” a family member shared, asking for privacy as they mourned the loss.
Public Safety and Community Concerns
This incident highlights the ongoing concerns over gun violence and public safety in Chicago. The UIC-Halsted CTA station is located in a busy urban area, often frequented by students, commuters, and locals. The brazen nature of the shooting, in such a public space, has shaken the community, with many calling for further measures to prevent similar occurrences in the future.
Residents in the area have expressed frustration at the increasing frequency of violent confrontations in the city. One local resident, who wished to remain anonymous, commented, “It’s scary that something like this could happen so close to home. You just never know what might set people off anymore.”
A Call for Justice
While the investigation continues, many in the community are asking for justice in the wake of Felmister’s death. Advocacy groups have called for stricter regulations on firearms and greater efforts to address the root causes of public violence.
“Every day that goes by without justice for John is another day that this community feels unsafe,” said Lori Williams, a local advocate for victims of gun violence. “We cannot allow these senseless acts to continue.”
How to Help
If you were in the area of the UIC-Halsted CTA station or the I-290 bridge and have any information that could assist investigators, you are encouraged to come forward. Chicago Crime Stoppers is offering a reward for any tips that lead to an arrest in this case.
Those with information can contact the Chicago Police Department’s Area Central Detective Division at (312) 747-8382, or submit anonymous tips through Crime Stoppers at (800) 535-7873.
Key Facts:
- Incident Type: Fatal shooting (shootout between two men)
- Location: UIC-Halsted CTA station, near I-290 bridge, Chicago, IL
- Time: 6:30 p.m., Monday, April 14, 2025
- Victim: John Felmister, 61
- Suspects: Chicago Transit Authority (CTA) employee (name not released)
- Cause of Death: Gunshot wound to the head
- Investigation: Ongoing, no murder charges filed yet