Chicago experienced a violent Memorial Day weekend with at least 41 people shot, nine of whom were fatally wounded, according to the Chicago Police Department (CPD). The shootings began on Friday evening, casting a grim shadow over the holiday period.
Tragic Death of a 5-Year-Old Girl
Among the victims was 5-year-old Reign Ware, who was tragically shot and killed on the Near West Side. Reign’s mother, Raven Adams, spoke to ABC7, describing her daughter as a lively and beloved child. Reign was known for her love of bubbles, playing with her older sister, and watching dance videos on social media. The family shared a photo of Reign, emphasizing the deep loss they are enduring.
The Incident
The incident occurred early Sunday morning when Reign was sitting inside a parked car while her father stood outside. Gunfire erupted on South Campbell near Jackson around 3:30 a.m., hitting both Reign and her father. Reign was rushed to the hospital but unfortunately did not survive. Her 24-year-old father is reported to be in good condition.
A witness recounted to ABC7 that a group of men exited a car and opened fire on a group of people standing outside, suggesting the shooting was an ambush attack.
Community Response
Raven Adams expressed her ongoing struggle to process the tragedy, striving to remain strong while mourning her daughter’s loss. The community has been shaken by this and other violent incidents over the weekend, highlighting the ongoing issue of gun violence in the city.
Conclusion
The Memorial Day weekend violence in Chicago underscores the urgent need for addressing the root causes of gun violence and enhancing community safety. The tragic death of Reign Ware serves as a poignant reminder of the innocent lives affected by such senseless acts. The CPD continues to investigate these incidents, aiming to bring justice to the victims and their families.