14-Year-Old Killed in Downtown Chicago Shooting During Teen Takeover

UPDATE: A tragic shooting in downtown Chicago has left a 14-year-old boy, identified as Armani Floyd, dead and eight others injured. The incident occurred during a chaotic “teen takeover” event on the night of Friday, October 13, 2023, raising urgent concerns over safety in the city.

Floyd was pronounced dead from multiple gunshot wounds at 10:59 p.m. at Northwestern Memorial Hospital, according to the Cook County medical examiner’s office. In a statement, Mayor Brandon Johnson expressed sorrow, stating, “No parent wants to get that terrible, life-altering call. It is senseless violence like these shootings that makes us all feel unsafe.”

The shooting took place at 140 S. Dearborn St., where Floyd was found lying in the street alongside another teen. Video footage captured the moments before the shooting, showing large crowds roaming the area before abruptly scattering. Police recovered multiple pieces of evidence from the scene, including three 9-mm casings and a live round.

Just before this incident, another shooting occurred outside the Chicago Theatre on the 100 block of North State Street. An unidentified suspect opened fire into a crowd of teenagers, injuring seven. The victims, aged between 13 and 17, were transported to local hospitals, with some suffering from graze wounds and others from more serious gunshot injuries.

Authorities report that the shootings are connected to a social media-driven gathering that attracted teens from as far away as Dolton and Evanston. Following the annual tree-lighting ceremony at Millennium Park, videos circulated warning people to avoid the Loop due to the potential chaos.

As of now, no suspects are in custody in connection with either shooting. The Chicago Police Department continues to investigate as the community grapples with the aftermath of this violence. Officials urge anyone with information to come forward.

The impact of this violence resonates deeply, leaving families shattered and increasing fears about safety in public spaces. With tensions high and emotions raw, the city faces a critical moment as it seeks to address the root causes of such senseless acts.

Stay tuned for further updates on this developing story.