Lifeguard, 55, charged with murder in shooting of 2 teens at Douglass Park: CPD; family speaks out

CHICAGO (WLS) -- A lifeguard was charged with murder and attempted murder after two teens were shot at a West Side park Thursday night.

Family members said a 14-year-old cousin of Laquan McDonald was wounded in the shooting at Douglass Park that left a 15-year-old boy dead.

The suspect, 55-year-old Charles Leto, is now facing multiple charges, including first-degree murder, Chicago police announced Saturday.

The charges comes as the family of the boy that was killed told ABC7 they demand justice.

According to a police report obtained by the ABC7 I-Team, the alleged gunman is a lifeguard with the Chicago Park District. That police report said the lifeguard had a concealed carry license and he claimed he was defending himself.

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The shooting happened around 7:03 p.m. Thursday in the 1400-block South Sacramento Drive in Douglass Park, Chicago police said.

The two teens were in the park when they were approached by an unknown armed male suspect who fired shots at them, police said.

The 14-year-old victim was shot in the neck and was taken to a hospital in serious condition, CPD said.

Family members identified the 14-year-old as Jeremy Herred. Herred is the cousin of Laquan McDonald, who was killed by Chicago police in 2014.

His uncle is Pastor Marvin Hunter of Grace Memorial Baptist Church. His family told ABC7 he is a sophomore at UIC Prep and had only been to the pool two or three times.

Herred's family said the teen is making some signs of improvement, but the gunshot would to the neck is a very critical injury.

The other victim, a 15-year-old boy, was shot in the back and was also hospitalized in serious condition. Police said he was later pronounced dead.

He was identified as Marjay Dotson by the Cook County Medical Examiner's Office, who ruled his death a homicide.

Leto has been charged with first-degree murder, first-degree attempted murder, aggravated battery and discharged of a firearm, police said.

"While no amount of justice can ever restore Marjay's life or fully heal Jeremy's wounds, the families take solemn relief that the justice system is now engaged with the announcement of criminal charges against the shooter," a statement from Jeffrey Neslund, the attorney for the families of both teens, read in part. "They stand firm in their belief that through the diligent work of prosecutors and the courts, justice will be served."

Relatives of Dotson have created a makeshift memorial at Douglass Park, just hours after charges were filed against the lifeguard accused of the crime. The teen's family members asked not to be identified.

"He was just 15," a relative said. "His bright spirit and loving heart touched us all. We cherish his memory forever."

According to the police report obtained by the I-Team, investigators said Leto has a concealed carry license and told officers he was defending himself after he claims the teens attacked and followed him and tried to steal his bike.

A witness, along with the family members of both, deny there was any altercation or provocation involving Leto.

Those who knew and loved Dotson are grateful for the well wishes and support as they mourn their loss.

"Your love support and understanding means so much to us during this incredibly difficult time," A relative said. "We just want justice for Marjay."

An attorney for one of the victim's families said neither of the boys were armed and that prosecutor should also charge the suspect with a hate crime.

Leto is scheduled to appear in court on Sunday.

The Chicago Park District issued a statement Friday, saying, "The Chicago Park District is deeply saddened by the tragic shooting that occurred at Douglass Park. We continue to cooperate with the Chicago Police Department as they conduct their active investigation. The Park District has made the decision to close Douglass Park pool today out of care and respect for the park staff and community members impacted by yesterday's events. The District is working with the Chicago Department of Public Health to offer crisis support services to the park staff and residents of the surrounding community.

"In spite of this tragic event, Douglass Park remains a safe and vibrant community anchor. The fieldhouse will be open today during normal operating hours and all programs will be held as scheduled. Additional Park security and other staff will be present throughout the day.

"The Park District understands the gravity of this situation. We have initiated a thorough internal review to understand what happened leading up to yesterday's shooting and identify appropriate action.

"We are committed to supporting our staff, patrons, and the broader North Lawndale community during this difficult time. As we move forward, our focus remains on safety, and ensuring our parks continue to be places of peace, connection, and community."

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