Tommie N. Gatewood, a 27-year-old African American male, tragically lost his life on May 31, 2020, in Chicago, IL. Gatewood was fatally shot while attempting to prevent looting at a liquor store located in the 5100 block of West Madison Street during a period of civil unrest following the killing of George Floyd. On that fateful day, Gatewood, along with other community members, confronted Andrew Sneed, a 36-year-old man from North Chicago, who was attempting to loot the store.
Despite their efforts to deter him, Sneed returned later and opened fire, hitting Gatewood and two others. Gatewood succumbed to his injuries at Stroger Hospital.
The incident led to the arrest of Andrew Sneed, who was charged with first-degree murder and two counts of aggravated battery with a firearm. Sneed's actions were captured on surveillance video, and eyewitness accounts corroborated the events leading to his arrest. The Chicago Police Department, along with the Great Lakes Regional Fugitive Task Force, apprehended Sneed in North Chicago. He was subsequently brought to bond court to face the charges.
The community mourned the loss of Gatewood, who was remembered as a brave individual trying to protect his neighborhood during a tumultuous time. The case highlighted the broader issues of violence and unrest that plagued Chicago during the protests. Authorities continued to seek information on other related incidents of arson and looting that occurred during the same period, emphasizing the need for community cooperation in bringing perpetrators to justice.
