Man killed in West Loop shooting, Chicago police say

CHICAGO (WLS) -- A man was fatally shot in the West Loop early Thursday morning, Chicago police said.

He was shot in the 100-block of North Clinton Street, near Ogilvie Transportation Center, and was found in the 500-block of West Lake Street, near the Clinton Green and Pink Line CTA station, about 12:50 a.m., CPD said.

The unidentified man, who appeared to be about 40 years old, had been shot in the chest, police said.

He was unresponsive, and taken to Stroger Hospital in critical condition.

SEE ALSO: Suspect shoots man who appears to swing tire iron at him at Auburn Gresham gas station: VIDEO

He later died, police said.

No one was in custody later Thursday morning, and Area Three detectives are investigating.

Alderman Bill Conway said the area where the shooting took place has become increasingly dangerous.

He said on Friday CPD arrested a man with an illegal loaded gun and $60,000 worth of heroin and crack cocaine in the 500-block of West Lake Street, and in recent weeks there have been two other shootings and multiple armed robberies.

Conway said he has sought increased public safety efforts in the area.

"Based on the clear trajectory of violent crime in the area, this tragic fatal shooting was inevitable and likely avoidable," said Conway, of the 34th Ward.

Conway held a press conference with Alderman Brendan Reilly Thursday to talk more about the issues.

A Chicago alderman spoke on crime in his West Loop Ward Thursday.

The mayor's office said in a statement, "The Chicago Police Department (CPD) has been actively and consistently engaged in operations in this area of the 34th Ward to address criminal activity and is always working to strengthen community safety throughout the city. The City of Chicago is committed to the security of all residents, including individuals experiencing homelessness who deserve the same measure of dignity and respect as everyone else in our city.

"The City adheres to established protocols when cleaning up areas beneath viaducts, taking into consideration the complex nature of these encampments which requires a compassionate City response to individuals in need of medical care, mental health services or treatment for substance use. Before any movement or cleaning of encampments, the

"City must ensure that these individuals are safe and connected with the social services resources they need.

"The City, through the Department of Family and Support Services and Mayor's Office of Community Safety, will continue to work with CPD and external partners in leading the way in both public safety and addressing underlying conditions affecting our unhoused, providing services and public safety intervention as needed."

INTERACTIVE SAFETY TRACKER | Track crime and safety in your neighborhood