Darius Jelks, a 31-year-old African American male, was tragically killed on May 31, 2020, in Chicago, Illinois. On that day, Darius and his cousin Maurice Jelks, aged 39, were driving to their mother's home when they were fatally shot. The incident occurred at approximately 1:40 p.m. while they were waiting at a stoplight in the 1600 block of East 95th Street. A dark-colored SUV pulled up beside their vehicle, and someone inside opened fire, striking both men in the head.
They were pronounced dead at the scene.
The deaths of Darius and Maurice Jelks were part of a wave of violence that swept through Chicago during a weekend of civil unrest following the killing of George Floyd by a Minneapolis police officer. The weekend saw 85 people shot, 24 of them fatally, making it one of the most violent periods in the city's recent history. The tragic loss of Darius and Maurice Jelks added to the toll of 18 murders that occurred in Chicago on May 31, 2020, marking it as the most violent day in the city in six decades.
Darius Jelks was a hardworking truck driver who supported his family through long hours on the road. He was known for his spirited and funny personality, and he was a devoted father raising a young boy and girl. Maurice Jelks, who worked in construction, had recently saved enough money to buy his first house. Both men were dedicated to providing a better life for their families.
As of now, there have been no arrests or suspects identified in the case. The Chicago police have not provided any answers or updates regarding the investigation into the murders of Darius and Maurice Jelks. The lack of information and closure has left their family in a state of grief and uncertainty, with many questions about who was responsible for the senseless act of violence and why it occurred.
