Maxwell Gadau killed in Skokie shooting, teen girl injured

SKOKIE, Ill. (WLS) -- There is shock and grief at a north suburban school Monday night following the shooting death of a student there.

Grieving friends and classmates of Max Gadau turned to each other for support stunned that the popular 17-year-old senior at Niles North High School was shot to death Sunday night.

"Positive, always happy, good vibes," former classmate Michelle Oraha. "Always wanted what's best for everybody."

The crowd swelled to more than 100 people, many bringing flowers and expressing their condolences to Gadau's family.

"I know it must be hard with people saying sorry. It's probably not doing anything, but I'm really sorry," said classmate Sylvia Burian.

Skokie Police say Sunday night after 9 o-clock, Gadau and a 17-year old female were sitting in a car in the 9200 block of Kedvale when they were shot.

He was killed instantly, she is in critical condition.

"He had a big future ahead of him. We're devastated, absolutely devastated," said Max's father, Peter Gadau.

Gadau's parents say their son was at the wrong place at the wrong time, offering protection to a friend in a situation that they say may have involved drugs and a robbery.

"He was a good kid who always tried to do the right thing, was always there when you need him," Peter Gadau said.

Witnesses say two people wearing masks approached the car and opened fire. Skokie Police say the shooting was not a random act, and are following up on solid leads.