Chicago police are investigating the fatal shooting of a man as he broadcast a Facebook Live early Wednesday evening.
Kevin Watson, 42, was roughly 11 minutes into a livestream addressing a conflict involving club promotion, owners, and security that had apparently occurred the previous evening, when an individual approached his vehicle in the West Side Austin neighborhood during his recording session.
“What’s up, bro? What’s up?” Watson says while glancing out the window. He then exclaims, “Hell, no,” and exits the car. Within seconds, a gunshot rings out.
The shooter is not visible in the footage. Some Facebook commenters speculated that Watson was targeted for the silver “Tugg” chain he wore, but the police have not confirmed any motive.
According to police statements given to WLS, the assailant approached in a different vehicle. Moments after the shot, a car door is heard shutting, and a vehicle hastily departs the scene as bystanders start to gather around Watson and his car.
Watson’s cousin, Jacquezz Smith, shared with the station that Watson had left the liquor store where Smith was working. Reflecting on the incident, Smith remarked, “If I’d known what was about to happen, I wouldn’t have let him walk out of the store.”
“He was a good man. No matter what he done, he helped people, you know?” Smith said. “He helped me get this job in here.”
Family said Watson leaves behind a 6-year-old son. Police have not announced any suspects or arrests.
