A tragic incident unfolded on Chicago’s South Side, where a man, recognized by his family as a UPS driver, lost his life to gun violence over the weekend, according to family statements on Tuesday.
Authorities reported that 36-year-old Michael Hunter was discovered with a fatal gunshot wound to the head early Sunday morning in the 8000 block of South Hermitage Avenue, located in the Auburn Gresham neighborhood.
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The Chicago Police Department confirmed that Hunter was pronounced dead at the scene.
On Tuesday, Hunter’s family gathered at the location of his death, voicing their demand for justice.
According to the family, Hunter was attempting to recover his stolen vehicle when the fatal incident occurred.
In their quest for answers, the family has announced a $10,000 reward for any information that leads to an arrest and conviction related to the case.
They said Hunter was their world.
“He was a provider; whenever you called, he was there,” sister Tori O’Hearn said.
Hunter was a father of three.
He and his fiancée had recently bought a home together on the far South Side.
“I thought he would see me graduate and walk the stage,” stepdaughter Brooklyn Nailer said.
“Michael meant everything to me; Michael was my heart, my soul,” his fiancée Ryan Mitchell said.
Hunter’s father tearfully explained he and his son were partners, and drove long-haul trucks for UPS, splitting the driving time.
“They took my son, my driving partner,” Michael Hunter Sr. said.
His family said they found Hunter’s stolen truck the next day 3 miles away.
The family put up fliers in the area, asking for people to step up with information.
“Look at the hurt, and look at the pain you’ve caused. This family did not deserve this; this family deserves justice,” philanthropist Early Walker said.
CPD Area Two Detectives are investigating the shooting.
Police did not immediately provide any additional information on what led up to the fatal shooting.
“Please, I beg you, the city of Chicago, to see this face. Know that he meant everything to us, and we are standing behind him. And we will not stop until justice is served,” Mitchell said.
His family said Hunter grew up in Auburn Gresham, and he had many friends and family in the area.
He had just visited his mom when his truck went missing, and he was shot.
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