Gunfire cut through a packed stretch of downtown Chicago late Friday night near State and Randolph streets, jolting the Loop just as holiday festivities were wrapping up. Chicago police launched an investigation at the busy intersection, steps from the Chicago Theatre and surrounding shops, while a heavy first-responder presence moved in on crowds that had lingered after the city's tree-lighting. Several ambulances and multiple police units converged on the scene as investigators worked into the night. Authorities called it a developing situation and urged anyone with information to contact detectives.
Police said at least six people were wounded in two separate shootings, the first near State and Randolph around 9:50 p.m. and a second about 30 minutes later near Adams and Dearborn, according to CBS Chicago. At least four victims were hurt in the State and Randolph incident, police said, though their conditions were not immediately available. Witnesses told reporters the victims appeared to be teenagers or young adults, and detectives kept the area taped off and active well into the night.
Heavy emergency response
WGN-TV's crews captured row after row of ambulances and police vehicles lining the block near the Chicago Theatre and the Walgreens at State and Randolph as the investigation unfolded. Their footage showed officers and medics working at the curb with victims while other investigators moved up and down the sidewalk, canvassing the scene for witnesses and evidence. First responders stayed on site late into the night as detectives tried to piece together what happened.
Holiday crowds and city reaction
The violence erupted on the same night Chicago lit its official Christmas tree in Millennium Park and opened the Christkindlmarket, events that drew large crowds into the Loop, according to WTTW. Ald. Brian Hopkins posted on X that multiple officers were "attacked and injured with mace and stun guns" and that at least one victim was in critical condition, a detail reported by CBS Chicago. As of early Saturday morning, city officials had not announced any arrests.
Investigators asked anyone who witnessed the shootings or who has video from the area to contact detectives as the probe continues. Further details are expected as police release more information.
