'You are now the hunted': Chicago mayor issues warning to gunman in East Garfield Park drive-by

10 victims of the Halloween night drive-by at California and Polk are members of same family, police say
Wednesday, November 2, 2022
CHICAGO (WLS) -- A vigil was held Wednesday, as Chicago police continue to look for the gunman behind a shooting incident Monday night in East Garfield Park that injured 15.

One of the most seriously injured victims of that shooting is hospitalized at Mount Sinai Hospital in critical condition.

Fourteen people were shot and a 15th person was hit by a car during the incident.

Some of the victims with less severe injuries could be released as soon as Wednesday.

At the site of the shooting, many gathered for an afternoon vigil in the neighborhood plagued with violence.

"All you hear is our hurt and our pain, and we're being re-traumatized every single day," said State Rep. Lakesia Collins.

Propped up only by a walker, and her own resolve, Ms. Patterson hobbled out of the hospital, back to the intersection where she and 13 people were shot in a matter of seconds Monday night.

"My little cousin had to go through surgery and he kept saying, "Mama, I don't want to go because I'm going to die," she said.

"We need men and women to take accountability of your own community," said Cornelius Parks of Good Hope Free Will. "There's only so much CPD can do."

Ten of the victims are reportedly related. They had held a memorial Monday night to remember a loved one who died of health complications.

Monday's vigil was being streamed live on SnapChat before police say two gunman started shooting at random into the crowd.

"The whole community is traumatized. This is some sick stuff that just happened around here. It's not normal," said Terry Young, vice president of Black Men United.

Pierre Riley, 48, was one of the 14 shot at California Avenue and Polk Street. He was last captured in a photo holding a picture of his late close friend prior to the shooting.

Riley's family is asking people to keep him in their prayers.

"We're asking people to pray for his strength and recovery because he was a loveable and likeable person," said his stepdaughter Artkeshia McGee. "Everybody around here loved him and liked him."

"They want to be well. They want their children to be well, and they want to be able to resume their normal activities," said Yolanda Field of Breakthrough Urban Ministries. "Understanding what violence does to individuals, but also to a family and to a community. I think there will be a new normal for this entire family."

His stepdaughter said the 48-year-old was shot in the head and is listed in critical condition as he clings to life.

"I just want to keep my mind on being positive for him. So, everything's going to be alright," McGee said.

"The community itself is rising up, saying something must change, something must happen, something must take place that is different than anything that we've seen," said Congressman Danny Davis.

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Investigators say at least two gunman fired from a dark SUV before speeding away.

The shooting had neighbors, like Eddie, rushing outside of his home to help.

"Utter chaos! It was dark, and people aren't sure where their friends and family are. Somebody got hit by the car that was doing the shooting, so you have a body in the street," he said.

Now, the full rank of Chicago city brass offer this chilling promise.

"You are now the hunted. We have officers that are doing everything they can around the clock to identify who you are and bring you to justice," said Mayor Lori Lightfoot

On Tuesday, dozens gathered at the scene to speak out against gun violence and demand change.

Just 48 hours later, the West Side community is back, unafraid and angry.

"We want the same results, consideration and resources like they got in Highland Park," Young said.

Family of some of the victims chose not to attend the morning news conference, where a coalition of the concerned called on Chicago to do the right thing and turn in those responsible.

"There's only so much that outsiders can do. If you don't take a stand in your own community, that could be your son, that could be your daughter," Rev. Parks said.

"It's probably been one of the worst days in my aldermanic career to get that type of news," Ervin said.

The youngest victim is 3 years old. An 11-year-old and a teenager, who may be 13, were also shot. The other victims are in their 30s, 40s, and 50s, according to police.

The victims' conditions vary from very serious injuries to non-life threatening injuries. At least six people are listed in serious or critical condition at nearby hospitals. There are not yet any reported fatalities.

Anyone with information is encouraged to contact Chicago police, and a reward of up to $15,000 is being offered for information leading to charges and/or a conviction in this incident.

No one is in custody. An investigation by Chicago police is ongoing.

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