CHICAGO, IL — A tragic mass shooting outside a River North lounge late Wednesday night has left four people dead and 14 others injured, including several in critical condition, Chicago police confirmed.
The incident unfolded just after 11 p.m. outside Artis Restaurant and Lounge, located in the 300 block of West Chicago Avenue, following an album release party for rapper Mello Buckzz.
Authorities say a dark-colored vehicle drove by the crowded entrance and opened fire, then quickly fled the scene.
Victims: Young Lives Lost
Among those killed were:
- A 24-year-old man shot in the chest
- A 25-year-old man shot in the head
- A 26-year-old woman and a 27-year-old woman, both shot in the chest
Sources confirm that the boyfriend and best friend of Mello Buckzz were among the deceased.
Three more victims were hospitalized in critical condition, including a 21-year-old woman shot in the mouth, and two other women in their early 20s suffering from gunshot wounds to the leg and back.
Other victims, ranging in age from their mid-20s to early 30s, were treated for injuries to the thigh, shin, knee, hand, and foot.
Eight individuals were listed in good condition, while two others were reported in serious or fair condition.
Chaos at the Scene
Videos from the scene show panic as concertgoers fled in all directions while shots rang out.
First responders rushed to help the wounded, and photos show a red carpet event poster, debris, and discarded personal items scattered across the sidewalk.
A “Business Closed by Order of the Superintendent of Police” sign was posted Thursday on the door of Artis Lounge — the same site where a previous nightclub, Hush Chicago, was shuttered in 2022 following another shooting.
Read Also: 21-Year-Old College Intern Killed as Bystander in D.C., Police Say
Investigation Ongoing
No arrests have been made. Authorities are reviewing surveillance footage and are asking witnesses to come forward. A video circulating online shows at least one shooter firing from the moving car.
Community Voices Needed
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Stay informed by visiting ridgecrestpact.org for more breaking updates and in-depth reports. If you were at the scene or have any information, contact CPD detectives or call (312) 747-8380.
