A west-suburban man is facing an attempted first-degree murder charge after Chicago police say he opened fire on a moving car on the city’s West Side, wounding a woman riding in the front seat.
The 36-year-old woman was shot in both thighs during the attack last Wednesday in Humboldt Park and taken to Mount Sinai Hospital, where she was listed in fair condition. Police said no one else in the vehicle was hurt.
Arrest in North Lawndale
Detectives say the trail led them to North Lawndale, where they arrested 42-year-old Deshawn Neal of Bellwood around 8:28 a.m. Monday in the 4100 block of West 21st Street, according to FOX 32 Chicago.
Neal has been charged with one felony count of attempted first-degree murder and was scheduled for a detention hearing on Wednesday, police said. Investigators have not said whether they believe the shooting was random or if the woman was specifically targeted.
Humboldt Park Context
The incident comes during a tense stretch in Humboldt Park, where residents say a string of recent shootings has ratcheted up anxiety about public safety.
In a separate case last week, a child was wounded near Central Park Avenue, adding fuel to community calls for safer firearm storage and more consistent neighborhood outreach.
What Police Say About the Shooting
Chicago police told FOX 32 Chicago that the woman was riding in the front passenger seat of a moving vehicle when a black Ford sedan pulled alongside. Someone inside the Ford opened fire, striking her in the thighs before the shooter took off.
The woman was rushed to Mount Sinai Hospital and stabilized in fair condition, authorities said.
Legal Outlook
Under Illinois law, an attempt to commit first-degree murder is typically treated as a Class X felony, a category that can translate into decades in prison. State statute also allows for extra prison time when a firearm is used in the crime, according to Illinois law.
Neal’s detention hearing will determine whether he remains in custody while the case moves forward in Cook County court.
What’s Next
As prosecutors review the evidence and prepare for early court appearances, detectives are continuing to follow up on leads and collect any additional video or witness statements.
Police have not released further details about a possible motive and are asking anyone with information about the Humboldt Park shooting to contact Area detectives.
