CHICAGO A relative has confirmed to WGN News that Laquan McDonald’s cousin was among the two teenagers shot Thursday night at Douglass Park.
According to the Chicago Sun-Times, a police report states the alleged gunman, a 55-year-old Chicago Park District staffer, said he was “defending” himself when he shot the teens.
According to police, the shooting unfolded just after 7 p.m. in the 1400 block of South Sacramento Avenue.
Police said the victims, a 14-year-old boy and a 15-year-old boy, were at the park when an unknown male offender approached, pulled out a gun and opened fire multiple times.
Officers said the 15-year-old boy suffered a gunshot wound to the back and was taken to the hospital, where he later died from his injuries.
The 14-year-old boy suffered a gunshot wound to his neck and was taken to the hospital in serious condition.
The Sun-Times reports that before the alleged gunman was arrested, he was found kneeling on the ground with a gun next to his knee.
“Those two kids attacked me and followed me,” he allegedly said, according to the police report. “I defended myself, I have a license.”
According to the Sun-Times, a witness told police she was standing next to the alleged gunman, who was fixing his bike, when a group, that included the two teens, approached him.
The witness said the man reached into his bag and grabbed his gun, then fired the weapon and struck the teens.
The Sun-Times reports the Park District has confirmed the alleged gunman is an employee.
No charges have been announced. An investigation is ongoing.
The Chicago Park District released the following statement regarding the fatal shooting:
“The Chicago Park District is deeply saddened by the tragic shooting that occurred at Douglass Park. We continue to cooperate with the Chicago Police Department as they conduct their active investigation. The Park District has made the decision to close Douglass Park pool today out of care and respect for the park staff and community members impacted by yesterday’s events. The District is working with the Chicago Department of Public Health to offer crisis support services to the park staff and residents of the surrounding community,” a Park District spokesperson said. “In spite of this tragic event, Douglass Park remains a safe and vibrant community anchor. The fieldhouse will be open today during normal operating hours and all programs will be held as scheduled. Additional Park security and other staff will be present throughout the day.”
Chicago Park District
Anyone with information on the shooting is asked to contact CPD Area Four Detectives at 312-746-8251 or dial 911.
Those with information that could help authorities in their investigation can also leave a tip at CPDtip.com. Tips can be filed anonymously.
