Four Dead, 14 Injured in Chicago River North Mass Shooting; Investigation Ongoing
Four Dead, 14 Injured in Chicago River North Mass Shooting; Investigation Ongoing
A devastating mass shooting in Chicago’s River North neighborhood on Wednesday night left four people dead and 14 others injured, prompting a swift closure of the Artis Restaurant and Lounge where the incident occurred. The drive-by shooting unfolded outside the venue, which was hosting an album-release party for Chicago drill rapper Mello Buckzz.
Police Superintendent Larry Snelling confirmed that a car pulled up to the location at 311 W. Chicago Ave. around 11 p.m., with at least one gunman opening fire on a crowd. Snelling described the attack as indiscriminate, stating, “They didn’t care who was struck. And in a matter of seconds they were able to shoot 18 people, taking four lives.” As of latest reports, no arrests have been made.
Among the fatalities was Mello Buckzz’s significant other, as confirmed by the rapper in an Instagram post. Police sources suggest the rapper herself may have been the target, though she had reportedly left the venue before the shooting erupted. The victims have been identified as Devonte Williamson, 23, Leon Henry, 25, Taylor Walker, 26, and Aviance King, 27.
Mayor Brandon Johnson condemned the “senseless and cowardly” act of violence, which occurred just days after he highlighted a reduction in city homicides and shootings. The city has issued a summary closure for Artis Restaurant and Lounge, which opened in April, due to public safety concerns. This address has a history, as a previous nightclub at the same location was shut down after a fatal mass shooting in 2022.
Alderman Brendan Reilly (42nd Ward) expressed frustration, noting the venue was operating as a BYOB restaurant without a liquor license, a loophole he believes was exploited. Police are investigating the incident, with preliminary hunches suggesting it was gang-related, potentially targeting gang members present at the event.
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