A tribute is expanding on Tuesday at the scene where a man lost his life amid a shootout on the Southwest Side over the weekend, according to family members who spoke to ABC7.
When Juanita Romero heard the gunshots near her home, she was unaware that the violence had claimed the life of her friend of many years, identified by relatives as Pedro Toledo.
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“He was the icon of this community. Everybody loved him,” Romero said. “There was a lot of gunshots. I jumped out of my bed. It scared me so much.”
The location where his life ended, and where the sorrow of his loved ones began, is now marked with balloons, candles, and a photo of the man cherished in the Pilsen community.
“He will never be forgotten. He will always be remembered here,” Romero said.
Family members report that the 57-year-old, fondly known as Pepe, was one of three individuals shot on Sunday morning near 17th and Wolcott when numerous shooters discharged their weapons.
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Police say Toledo was shot multiple times. He was the only victim of that shooting who died from his injuries.
Toledo’s family and friends told ABC7 he was an innocent bystander, caught in the crossfire of gun violence after years of experiencing homelessness.
“He survived countless challenges over the years, from harsh winters to the pandemic, and nothing ever happened. For him to lose his life in this manner is simply unjust,” Romero said.
“Friends and family intend to remain at the memorial until Toledo’s funeral, which is still being organized. No arrests have been made regarding the incident so far.
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