In a troubling incident that unfolded in downtown Chicago on Friday afternoon, a 14-year-old boy was shot, adding to the growing concerns about safety in the city. The shooting occurred around 4:19 p.m. near the intersection of Adams and Wells streets, in the heart of the Loop.

Chicago police swiftly responded to the scene, which is just a stone’s throw from the bustling Quincy CTA stop and a mere two blocks from the iconic Willis Tower. At the time of the incident, the area was teeming with pedestrians, underscoring the potential dangers in such a densely populated district.

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The young victim, who sustained a gunshot wound to his leg, was quickly transported to Lurie Children’s Hospital. Fortunately, his injuries have been classified as non-life-threatening, providing some relief amidst the chaos.

Witnesses recounted that a large group of youths, likely teenagers, were involved in a heated argument inside a nearby fast-food restaurant. This confrontation soon escalated, spilling onto the streets where the altercation took a violent turn.

As tensions flared outside, as many as three gunshots rang out, according to those who witnessed the unsettling scene. The investigation continues as police work to identify the unknown assailant responsible for this brazen act.

The altercation spilled out outside near Adams and Wells, and during the fight, witnesses said as many as three shots were fired.

“Sirens, and we kind of all flocked to the window, and we saw the group of people,” said Nathan Freeman who works nearby. “We saw the guy obviously who’d been shot. He was definitely a younger guy.”

It’s unclear at this time if anyone is in custody. ABC7 crews saw police appearing to detain a man, but it’s unclear if he’s connected to the incident.

“I appreciate the quick response time by the police,” said Luke Austin who works nearby. “That was quick. I’m a little shocked. You know, you hear about it a lot, but seeing it so close is definitely unnerving.”

Police had Wells Street blocked between Adams and Monroe as they began an investigation.

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