Gunfire tore through Chicago’s Back of the Yards neighborhood early Tuesday, leaving a 17-year-old boy dead and two men critically wounded. Officers responding to reports of shots fired found victims on and near local streets, while neighbors described a heavy police presence as investigators worked the scene. The attack left families and school staff on edge in a community that has already seen several multi‑victim shootings in recent weeks.
Police said the shooting happened about 7:40 a.m. in the 5000 block of South Throop Street, when an SUV pulled up, a person got out and opened fire. The 17-year-old was shot in the body, taken to Comer Children’s Hospital and pronounced dead. The two adult victims, a 61-year-old man who was shot in the back and a 55-year-old man who was struck in the right arm, drove to the 5000 block of South Ashland Avenue and were taken to Stroger Hospital in critical condition. No one was in custody and Area 1 detectives are investigating, according to CBS Chicago.
Recent pattern of violence in the neighborhood
Tuesday’s shooting is the latest in a string of incidents that has left multiple people hurt in Back of the Yards this month. Local coverage has documented daytime and late night attacks that have forced police to canvas blocks for footage and witnesses and have rattled residents. As detailed in coverage of broad daylight gunfire, authorities have repeatedly appealed to the public for tips and video after recent shootings.
Rifle recovered near 44th and Wolcott
Officers were also investigating an SUV near 44th and Wolcott where an AK‑47‑style assault rifle was found on the ground, though police said it was not immediately clear whether that vehicle was tied to the Throop Street shooting. Detectives told reporters they were canvassing the area for surveillance and cellphone video and urged anyone with information to contact Area 1. The details were included in early briefings and local reporting, and investigators say the case remains active. As reported by CBS Chicago, no arrests had been announced.
Neighbors said the morning scene left people shaken, and school staff were notified because the crime happened within a few blocks of the Peace and Education Coalition High School. Police continue to seek tips as investigators work to piece together who was responsible.
