An Elgin High School senior's night out to a Lil Durk concert turned tragic when he was fatally shot after being robbed at gunpoint near the United Center. Jess Kendall, 18, along with four friends, was accosted by four assailants – two on bikes, two on foot – who demanded their belongings under threat, according to a Chicago Sun-Times report. The robbery escalated into violence, leading to Kendall's shooting, after which he was taken to Stroger Hospital in critical condition but was pronounced dead early Monday.
The Chicago Police Department shared in a statement obtained by the Sun-Times that the gunmen screamed at the victims to empty their pockets. Following the robbery, Kendall reportedly yelled at the attackers, which provoked a brief confrontation that ended with him being pistol-whipped, battered, and ultimately shot in the chest. His companions, two sisters aged 16 and 17, an 18-year-old woman, and a 20-year-old man attempted to flee and seek help while keeping a wary eye on the suspects.
In an interview with ABC7 Chicago, Kendall's older brother, Thomas "Tommy" Kendall, expressed his devastation, remembering his younger sibling as "the best friend I had." He recalled how Jess and his girlfriend were targeted by the masked individuals just blocks from the venue. Tommy detailed the harrowing moments following the shooting, describing his race to the hospital and the painful realization that his brother was gone.
The senseless violence has struck a chord in the Elgin community where Kendall was cherished for his helpfulness and aspirations. "He cut grass in the neighborhood. He did small jobs for old people in the neighborhood. Everybody loved the kid," Tommy told ABC7 Chicago. Jess's interests included cars and a future in automotive school, painting a picture of a young man with dreams unfulfilled due to an act of abrupt brutality.
As the investigation continues, no arrests have been made, and police urge anyone with information to come forward. The district has ensured that counselors are available for grieving students and staff. In the wake of this tragedy, a GoFundMe fundraiser has surpassed $6,500 to assist the Kendall family during this difficult time.
