Chaves Bradley, a 25-year-old African American male from Hammond, Indiana, tragically lost his life on December 30, 2022, in Crete, Illinois. The incident occurred when Bradley drove to Crete to sell a large quantity of marijuana to a 14-year-old boy. According to the Will County Sheriff's Office, Bradley parked his vehicle in a prearranged location near the 1100 block of East 263rd Street in unincorporated Crete Township. Shortly after, the teenager allegedly began shooting at Bradley's vehicle as he attempted to flee the scene. Bradley's car was struck multiple times by gunfire, and he was hit once, causing him to crash into several parked vehicles. Despite his efforts to seek help, Bradley collapsed and died from his injuries at the scene.
The investigation revealed that the 14-year-old boy, whose identity has not been disclosed due to his age, was charged with three counts of first-degree murder, possession of a stolen firearm, unlawful possession of a handgun, and possession of a firearm without a Firearm Owner’s Identification Card (FOID). The firearm used in the shooting was a .40 caliber pistol, which was found hidden in the teenager's bedroom during a search of his residence. The gun was determined to have been stolen from a home in Naperville, Illinois. Additionally, seven spent .40 caliber shell casings were recovered at the crime scene, matching the ammunition found in the boy's possession.
The boy's parents were also taken into custody for questioning, but no charges against them have been reported. The case has drawn significant attention due to the involvement of a minor in such a violent crime and the circumstances surrounding the illegal drug transaction. The legal proceedings against the teenager are ongoing, with the potential for severe penalties given the gravity of the charges. The tragic death of Chaves Bradley highlights the dangers associated with illegal drug activities and the devastating impact of gun violence on communities.
