Lewis Funches, a 22-year-old African American male, tragically lost his life on July 3, 2020, in Chicago, Illinois. Funches was a young man with a promising future, known for his passion for dancing and his aspiration to become a Chicago police officer. He was an intern in District 15 and had completed the necessary tests to join the police academy.
His life was cut short during a violent weekend in Chicago when he was shot in the head at a block party on June 27, 2020.
The incident occurred at a large gathering on South Rhodes Avenue, where multiple people were shot. Funches was not believed to be the intended target. He spent a week in a coma at the University of Chicago Medical Center before succumbing to his injuries. His mother, Tenika Blackman, was by his side throughout his hospitalization.
The shooting also resulted in the death of another man, Kehinde A. Ojunleye, who was struck in the groin. Two other men, aged 19 and 21, were injured in the attack. The police took two suspects in for questioning, but they were released without charges. The investigation into the shooting is ongoing, with Area One detectives leading the efforts.
Funches' death was a significant loss to his family, friends, and the community. He was remembered as a cheerful and outgoing individual who loved to smile and had a magnetic personality. His involvement in the Ultimate Threat Dance Corp. and his dedication to becoming a police officer highlighted his commitment to his passions and his community.
