Former Mayor Henyards Father Shot in Chicago, Seeks Federal Aid

Former Dolton, Illinois, Mayor Tiffany Henyard confirmed Thursday that her 65-year-old father was seriously injured in a shooting in Chicago's North Lawndale neighborhood, prompting her to call on state and city leaders to accept federal assistance in combating gun violence.

The incident occurred around 5:54 p.m. Wednesday in the 1300 block of South Kedzie Avenue. According to Chicago police, the man was in an alley when he was shot in the neck and transported to Mount Sinai Hospital in serious condition. Witnesses reported three individuals fleeing the scene into a nearby apartment complex, but no arrests have been made as detectives continue their investigation.

In a statement posted on Facebook, Henyard described the event as a "random and heartbreaking" act of violence that has "shaken my family to its core." She expressed gratitude for public support and prayers while highlighting the broader issue of gun violence in Illinois. "This tragedy ... reflects a reality that far too many families across our state are facing," she wrote. "This devastating moment only further highlights ... the ongoing gun violence in the City of Chicago has made too many of our communities feel unsafe."