Person of interest in 9-year-old's shooting death turns self in, police say

CHICAGO (WLS) -- A person of interest has turned themselves in to police for questioning in connection with the shooting death of 9-year-old Tyshawn Lee earlier this week.

Officials say the person, along with their attorney, came forward to Area South detectives sometime Wednesday. Lee's relatives are hopeful it will help solve the case.

"I hope it is the one in custody - the right person - I really do. But like I said before, God got this," said Vicky G., Lee's step-grandmother.

Lee was shot several times at close range in the 8000-block of South Damen Avenue near his grandmother's house in the city's Gresham neighborhood Monday.

The reward for information leading to an arrest in Lee's murder was increased to $35,000 Wednesday as friends and family continue to mourn his loss. Lee's mother, Karla Lee, was hospitalized Wednesday morning after sleeping near a memorial for her son in the alley where he was shot to death. She has since been released.

Police say they are investigating possible motives, including any enemies of his father, Pierre Stokes. Stokes says that police should shift the focus from him to finding his son's killer.

"Ya'll are more worried about me. Worry about the killer. Worry about the person who killed my son," he said.

Friends and family members held up signs all day Wednesday at the busy intersection of 79th and Damen, wanting to see the gunman taken off city streets.

"Let's get this person who did this to our children, that wasn't just her grandson, that's my grandson too," said Kimberly Williams, a family friend.

At a memorial held Thursday night, some relatives were already striving to forgive.

"I do believe in forgiveness. I do believe it in that. That's the greatest thing you can give. If you don't, you become like that person that did this to my child," Vicky G. said.

A funeral will be held for Lee Nov. 10 at St. Sabina Catholic Church. Visitation will be at 10 a.m. with a funeral service at 11 a.m.

Police have not released any other details.