Jaslyn "Pinky" Adams, a 7-year-old African American girl, was tragically killed on April 18, 2021, in Chicago, Illinois. The incident occurred while she was sitting in a car with her father, Jontae Adams, at a McDonald's drive-thru in the Homan Square neighborhood. The father and daughter were ambushed by two gunmen who exited another vehicle and fired more than 50 shots into their car. Jaslyn was struck multiple times and was rushed to Stroger Hospital, where she was pronounced dead.
Her father, who was also shot, survived the attack but was left in serious condition.
The investigation into Jaslyn's death revealed that the shooting was likely gang-related, with her father, Jontae Adams, possibly being the intended target due to his criminal history and connections to gang activities. Jontae Adams was on parole at the time of the shooting, having been previously convicted of multiple felonies.
In the aftermath of the shooting, several arrests were made. Marion Lewis, an 18-year-old man, was charged with first-degree murder, attempted first-degree murder, and other related crimes. Lewis was apprehended after a confrontation with police on the Eisenhower Expressway. He was accused of driving the vehicle involved in the shooting and facilitating the attack by the two gunmen. Additionally, Eric Keys Jr., a 25-year-old man, admitted to purchasing one of the guns used in the shooting. Keys was sentenced to two years of probation for making false statements during the purchase of firearms.
The case drew significant media attention and public outcry, highlighting the pervasive issue of gun violence in Chicago. Community members and family of Jaslyn Adams held vigils and called for an end to the violence that claimed the life of the young girl. The legal proceedings against those involved in the shooting continue, as the community seeks justice for Jaslyn and her family.
