Chicago weekend gun violence kills 7, sparks prevention plan

A wave of gun violence across Chicago over the weekend left at least seven people dead and dozens more wounded, authorities said, with a mass shooting at a Juneteenth celebration sparking renewed political debate over crime-fighting strategies.

The most significant single incident occurred late Friday night, June 19, in the Princeton Park neighborhood on the city's South Side. According to police, a red SUV pulled alongside a large crowd gathered near West 95th Street and South Princeton Avenue just after 11 p.m. Two individuals inside the vehicle opened fire before fleeing the scene. At least 12 people were shot in that attack, with victims ranging in age from 17 to 47. One victim, a 26-year-old man, was listed in critical condition. Most victims transported themselves to area hospitals for treatment.

Mayor Brandon Johnson condemned the shooting in a statement on Saturday, saying what should have been a night of celebration and community reflection for Juneteenth was shattered by a horrific act of violence. He vowed that those responsible would be held accountable. Violence prevention advocate Irion Meadows, who was at the scene, said such violence does a disservice to the...