A mass shooting erupted in Chicago’s Washington Park on Saturday night, leaving one person dead and at least 13 others wounded. Police were already on the scene around 11:37 p.m. as they attempted to disperse a gathering on the park’s eastern side when an unknown individual opened fire on the crowd.
Witness Terry Jones, who said the event resembled a picnic, told CBS News Chicago that he initially thought the gunshots were fireworks before seeing people flee. Officers reported detaining a suspect and recovering a weapon, and witnesses said the shooter was seen carrying an AR‑15 rifle.
The deceased victim was a 35‑year‑old man who later died at a local hospital. The injured, ranging in age from 21 to 47, include a 34‑year‑old man with a shoulder wound, a 39‑year‑old man shot in the arm and leg, a 40‑year‑old woman with a shoulder injury, and a 45‑year‑old woman shot in the leg. Additional victims include a 42‑year‑old man, a 26‑year‑old woman with a chest wound, a 37‑year‑old woman, a 23‑year‑old man and a 35‑year‑old man, whose conditions were not immediately released. A 47‑year‑old woman was hospitalized in serious condition, while three women aged 21, 23 and 43 were listed in fair condition. Police confirmed no officers were injured.
Chicago authorities have not confirmed any arrests, and the investigation remains ongoing. Cook County Crime Stoppers is offering a cash reward of up to $10,000 for information leading to the arrest of the gunman. Paul Rutherford, executive director of the organization, called the incident a “senseless act of violence” and urged community members to come forward with any tips that could aid detectives.
