14-Year-Old Killed in Chicago Shooting During ‘Teen Takeover’

URGENT UPDATE: A tragic shooting in downtown Chicago on Friday night has claimed the life of 14-year-old Armani Floyd. His death has been ruled a homicide after he succumbed to multiple gunshot wounds at 10:59 p.m. at Northwestern Memorial Hospital. The incident occurred during a chaotic gathering dubbed a “teen takeover,” which has left the community reeling.

Authorities confirm the shooting that fatally injured Floyd and wounded eight others took place at 140 S. Dearborn St.. Eyewitness reports describe large crowds roaming the streets before chaos erupted. Video footage captured the moment when people scattered, reportedly in response to gunfire. Police recovered three 9-mm casings, a live round, and a fired bullet from the scene.

Floyd was not alone; an 18-year-old man was also shot in the leg and is currently in serious condition at the same hospital. This incident followed an earlier shooting outside the Chicago Theatre on the 100 block of North State Street, where an unidentified suspect opened fire into a crowd of teenagers, injuring seven.

The victims of the first shooting ranged in age from 13 to 17 and were transported to local hospitals in good and fair condition. Many sustained graze wounds on their stomachs and hips, while others had serious gunshot injuries. Chicago police indicate that both shootings are connected to the social media-driven “teen takeover” gathering, which attracted teens from as far as Dolton and Evanston after the annual tree-lighting ceremony at Millennium Park.

Local officials express their outrage and sorrow. Mayor Johnson stated,

“No parent wants to get that terrible, life-altering call. It is senseless violence like these shootings that makes us all feel unsafe, and it has left too many families in Chicago reeling.”

As the investigation continues, police have not made any arrests in connection with either shooting as of Sunday evening. Meanwhile, social media videos warning people to avoid the Loop have circulated, reflecting the heightened concern among residents.

This developing situation highlights the urgent need for community safety and intervention to address the alarming trend of violence among youth. Authorities urge anyone with information regarding the shootings to come forward.

Stay tuned for updates on this ongoing investigation as the community grapples with the aftermath of these tragic events.