CHICAGO (WLS) — A 16-year-old girl who was killed in shooting Friday night on the city’s South Side is being remembered by her community.
Meeyah Smith was part of an organization called “Englewood First Responders.”
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The organization helps better the community by cleaning neighborhoods, spending time with seniors and supporting families experiencing hardship.
Smith’s co-workers who became her close friends told ABC7 they are shocked after the sudden loss.
The shooting happened in the Avalon Park neighborhood’s 1200-block of East 83rd Street around 11 p.m. Friday.
Police said a suspect walked up and shot Smith and a 35-year-old man. The man survived.
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James Riley, a local resident, expressed his disbelief about the current events in the area. “I’m consistently surprised by what’s happening around here,” he admitted. “While I’m starting to accept it, it’s still heartbreaking.”
Street pastor and anti-violence activist Donovan Price said he’s concerned about what feels like an uptick in gun violence.
Price remarked, “Sometimes it boils down to pure malice. As long as firearms are accessible, people will resort to them in moments of anger.” He described it as a “convenient outlet for rage.”
No one is in custody for the shooting as Chicago police continue to investigate.
Shana Riley, from Avalon Park, shared her concerns, stating, “I have two sons and their safety is a huge worry for me.” She added, “I’ve lost a brother to murder and another has been shot, so it personally affects me deeply.”
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