CHICAGO, Ill. — A drive-by shooting during a Juneteenth celebration on Chicago’s South Side left at least 13 people injured late Friday night, according to authorities.
The shooting occurred shortly after 11 p.m. near West 95th Street and South Princeton Avenue in the city’s Princeton Park neighborhood.
Chicago police said a red SUV pulled up alongside a large crowd gathered in the area when two individuals inside the vehicle began firing into the crowd before fleeing the scene.
Investigators said the victims ranged in age from 17 to 47 years old. Multiple people suffered gunshot wounds and were transported to area hospitals for treatment.
Officials reported that at least one victim remained in critical condition, while several others were listed in stable or good condition.
Witnesses described scenes of panic as gunfire erupted during what was supposed to be a celebration of freedom and community. Surveillance video from the area reportedly captured a barrage of gunshots followed by people running for cover.
Authorities also recovered numerous pieces of evidence from the scene as detectives began their investigation.
Community leaders expressed frustration over the violence occurring on a day meant to commemorate Juneteenth, the federal holiday marking the end of slavery in the United States. Local advocates said the shooting overshadowed what should have been a positive event for residents and families.
Chicago Mayor Brandon Johnson addressed the incident, calling it another painful reminder of the impact gun violence continues to have on communities across the city. City officials vowed to continue efforts aimed at removing illegal firearms from the streets and holding those responsible accountable.
As of Saturday evening, no arrests had been announced and investigators had not released a possible motive. Detectives are asking anyone with information about the shooting or the suspects involved to contact Chicago police.
The investigation remains ongoing.
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