August Gills, an 18-year-old African American male, was tragically killed in a drive-by shooting on June 6, 2020, in the Cottage Grove Heights neighborhood on the South Side of Chicago. The incident occurred around 2:40 p.m. when an orange Dodge Charger pulled up and fired shots at Gills and a 27-year-old woman who was with him. Gills was struck in the head and shoulder and was immediately taken to Christ Medical Center in Oak Lawn, where he succumbed to his injuries several hours later.
The Cook County medical examiner's office confirmed that Gills died from his gunshot wounds, and his death was ruled a homicide.
The 27-year-old woman, whose identity has not been disclosed, was grazed by a bullet but refused medical treatment. The shooting left the community in shock and mourning, as Gills was a young man with his whole life ahead of him. The police have not released any information about potential suspects or arrests related to the case. Area Two detectives are actively investigating the incident, but as of now, no significant leads have been reported.
The tragic death of August Gills highlights the ongoing issue of gun violence in Chicago, particularly in neighborhoods like Cottage Grove Heights. Despite efforts by law enforcement and community organizations to curb violence, incidents like this continue to claim the lives of young individuals. The investigation into Gills' death remains open, and authorities are urging anyone with information to come forward to help bring justice to his family and loved ones.
The community has rallied together in the wake of this tragedy, holding vigils and memorials to honor Gills' memory. His death serves as a stark reminder of the urgent need for comprehensive measures to address gun violence and ensure the safety of all residents in Chicago.
