17-year-old boy shot outside Chatham church

CHICAGO (WLS) -- A 17-year-old boy was shot in the leg Sunday outside a Bethlehem Star Baptist Church in the Chatham neighborhood.

Parishioner Damane Mitchell, who was standing inside the church when gunfire erupted from an alley across the street, was also shot. Mitchell's head was grazed by a bullet and he sustained a minor scratch.

Mitchell was at the church to attend his best friend's wedding. The wedding was one of several events held at the church Sunday, including a 25th anniversary celebration for Pastor Roosevelt Watkins.

Police said the bullets were likely intended for the 17-year-old, who limped into the church for cover. The incident may have been motivated by a gang dispute, police said.

Watkins has led efforts to stop the violence in his community. He said this is the first time the violence struck so close to home.