CHICAGO (WLS) — On Tuesday, family members gathered in Chatham at the site where 16-year-old Stephon Jacobs tragically lost his life. Jacobs was discovered shot during what his relatives described as an unsupervised teen gathering over the weekend.
“We absolutely need justice. There were many children in that house that day,” expressed Joycelyn Fikes, Stephon’s aunt, highlighting the need for answers and accountability.
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Grieving yet determined, the family released balloons into the sky, a poignant tribute mingled with their profound loss.
“It’s unbelievable to me that this happened. We should have had more time together,” shared Sumeyre Jacobs, Stephon’s 14-year-old brother, lamenting the moments they will never share.
As they remembered Stephon, the painful reality of his absence was felt outside the home near 77th and Rhodes. Police reports indicate the Woodlawn High School student was discovered with a gunshot wound to the head in an upstairs room.
“Apparently, one of the boys in the house was playing with a gun when it accidentally discharged,” recounted Fikes.
It happened just after 1:30 a.m. Sunday during what, relatives say, was a late-night unsupervised teen party.
“I wish that we knew that he was here because I would’ve personally came and got him,” said Veronica Harris, the victim’s aunt. “Guns are in the hands of these teenagers, and it’s taking our kids away from us.”
Messages left for the landlord were not returned.
When asked, police wouldn’t say if or how many times officers were ever called to that home. They also wouldn’t say if anyone was taken into custody regarding the shooting, only saying there are no updates at this time while the investigation remains ongoing.
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