Alexis Daniel Velazquez Guadarrama, a 26-year-old Hispanic male, tragically lost his life on April 23, 2022, in Chicago, IL. The incident occurred in the Chicago Lawn neighborhood, specifically in the 6200 block of South Francisco Avenue. On that fateful night, officers responded to a shooting around 11:30 p.m. and found Guadarrama with a gunshot wound to his chest.
He was pronounced dead at the scene.
The investigation revealed that the shooting happened during a gathering at a backyard barbecue. Manuel Robles, a 28-year-old male, was present at the party and was holding a Glock handgun while conversing with others, including Guadarrama. According to prosecutors, Robles was gesturing with the gun in his right hand and had his left arm around Guadarrama when the firearm accidentally discharged, striking Guadarrama in the chest. Robles fled the scene but was apprehended by police officers nearby about half an hour later, with blood on his hands and clothing. He allegedly admitted to the shooting while in custody.
Robles, who has previous convictions for robbery and aggravated unlawful use of a weapon, was charged with involuntary manslaughter and being an armed habitual criminal. During a court hearing, Cook County Judge Kelly McCarthy ordered Robles held without bail, citing his danger to the community and the fact that he was not supposed to possess a weapon. Robles' phone records showed he called a friend and sent a text message indicating that he had accidentally killed his friend. He was expected back in court on May 16, 2022.
This tragic incident highlights the dangers of handling firearms irresponsibly, especially by individuals with a criminal history. The case of Alexis Daniel Velazquez Guadarrama underscores the need for stringent gun control measures and the importance of ensuring that firearms do not end up in the hands of those who are not legally permitted to possess them.
