A shooting took place in Chicago’s River North neighborhood around 2:15 AM this morning at State & Hubbard. Three other victims were taken to local hospitals with gunshot wounds, Chicago Police Department officials said.
Current Condition of Victims
The three were in stable condition at Northwestern Memorial Hospital. The wounded were two men, both 24 and 31 years old, and one woman, 27. Medical personnel said none of the injuries was believed to be life-threatening at this time.
Police Investigation Underway
Area Three detectives are seeking the gunman. Initial evidence indicates the event started as an argument outside a local nightclub between two groups and escalated into shots being fired. At least 15 shell casings were marked by crime scene technicians at the scene.
Eyewitness Accounts
Numerous witnesses reported hearing several gunshots and seeing people fleeing in panic. “It sounded at first like fireworks, and then everybody started screaming and ducking,” said one restaurant worker who requested anonymity. The police are examining surveillance footage from businesses in the area.
Road Closures and Commuter Impact
Police shut down a stretch of Hubbard Street between State and Dearborn and reopened it before 10 a.m., leading to minor traffic delays during the morning commute. All roads were reopened by 7:30 a.m. once evidence collection was complete.
Police Search for Suspects
Police are searching for two male suspects in dark clothing who were last seen heading west on foot following the shooting. CPD issued a community alert with the description of the suspects and asked anyone with information to call Area Three detectives.
Current Crime Climate in River North
It was the fourth shooting of the year in the River North entertainment district. According to police statistics, violent crime in the area is down 12% compared with this time last year, but the summer months can be busy in Provenza.
Increased Police Presence Planned
The statement said police will increase patrols in the River North nightlife district through the holiday weekend. The department is partnering with businesses in the area for increased security during the late hours.
Community Reaction
Community leaders and store owners worried about the growing violence. “We must find something more permanent than adding police after something happens,” said Sarah Wilkins, who owns a boutique nearby. Community leaders will meet with aldermen next week to discuss safety protocols.
Mayor’s Office Statement
Chicago Mayor Brandon Johnson’s office issued a press release denouncing the violence and promised to maintain support for community safety programs. The mayor stressed that continued investments in youth programs and economic development were the ultimate solution.
Hospital Response
The trauma protocol was in place at Northwestern Memorial Hospital when the victims were rushed there. All were operated on and are expected to make a full recovery. Security at the hospital was temporarily heightened as a precaution.
Nightclub Under Review
The club in which the fight erupted, Club Vertigo, faces fresh attention from city regulators. The business operating license of the establishment will be presented for review by the Department of Business Affairs in light of the most recent overcrowding and noise complaints.
Witness Cooperation Sough
Police are asking all those in the area between 1:30 a.m. and 2:30 a.m., particularly those who may have cell phone video of the fight, to contact them. A tip line has been set up for those who want to provide information.
Upcoming Community Safety Meetin
The River North Residents Association is holding an emergency street safety meeting Tuesday evening at the Chicago Loop Synagogue. Representatives from CPD and the office of the mayor plan to attend and speak to local issues.
Business Impact Assessment
Some restaurants and retail businesses were late to open today as employees coped with the aftermath. The local chamber of commerce predicts at least $250,000 in lost revenue for businesses in the immediate area from the morning closures and disrupted foot traffic.
Police Department Resources
CPD has also put out more detectives, from its Central Investigations Division, to help work the case. The Bureau of Patrol has tapped business liaisons to smooth lines of communication between bars and police.
