CHICAGO – Today, we mourn the loss of an 8-year-old girl whose life was tragically taken from her by gang violence. This heinous and cowardly act of wanton violence that leaves our city mourning children is beyond reprehensible and has no place in our communities.

We are all allowed to be outraged today – a warm, spring day that I am sure this child would have been enjoying with family. I am praying for her loved ones and her community as they experience the unimaginable pain of losing a child.

I am also praying for the recovery of the three children and seven adults who were injured in this horrific shooting. Our Mayor’s Office of Community Safety has been in contact with the Chicago Police Department, which is committed to identifying and apprehending the individuals responsible.

The Community Safety Coordination Center has developed an initial response plan, which, among other resources, will consist of: 

• A mass canvassing event at 52^nd and Damen and surrounding blocks on Monday, April 15, at 2 p.m. with the purpose of providing the community access to behavioral teams, victim services and case management 
• Financial support for the family of the child who passed away via the Emergency Supplemental Victim’s Fund program
• Emergency Services Assistance Center, starting today, April 14
• Victim services to other victims and families 
• Increased 9^th District CPD presence at impacted schools

As the CPD and our partners work through their investigation, the Back of the Yards community has the full support of our administration as they process and heal from this trauma.

###