Johnny Shanklin, a 50-year-old blind African American man, was tragically shot and killed on April 24, 2018, in Chicago, IL. Shanklin was walking with the assistance of a white cane in the 3800 block of West Roosevelt Road in the Lawndale neighborhood when he was struck by gunfire. The incident occurred around 9 p.m. as Shanklin was heading to a corner store to buy some bread.
According to witnesses and surveillance footage, a red Chevrolet Impala pulled into an alley, and two men emerged, opening fire on several unarmed individuals, including Shanklin. He was hit multiple times in the back and succumbed to his injuries at the scene.
The investigation quickly led to the arrest of two suspects, Dureya Lark, 30, and Demarcus Washington, 22, both of whom were charged with first-degree murder. Lark and Washington, members of the Traveling Vice Lords street gang, were allegedly targeting a group of men standing near Roosevelt Road and Avers Avenue but ended up hitting Shanklin instead. The suspects fled the scene in the Impala, but on-duty Chicago police officers who heard the gunshots pursued the vehicle. The chase ended when the Impala crashed at the intersection of Cermak Road and Pulaski Avenue. Lark and Washington were apprehended, and their right hands tested positive for gunshot residue. Video surveillance also captured the shooting, showing the gunmen wearing clothing that matched what Lark and Washington were wearing at the time of their arrest.
Further developments in the case included the arrest of Deangelo Joyce, the alleged getaway driver. Joyce's fingerprints and DNA were recovered from the car used in the shooting. He was charged with first-degree murder and held on $300,000 bail. The prosecution presented evidence that Joyce waited in a nearby alley for Lark and Washington to return before speeding away. The case against the suspects was bolstered by witness testimonies, forensic evidence, and video surveillance, leading to their continued detention without bail.
The murder of Johnny Shanklin, a beloved community member known for his humility and sense of humor, shocked and saddened the Lawndale neighborhood. Friends and acquaintances described him as a great guy who was always energetic and cracking jokes. His death highlighted the ongoing issue of gun violence in Chicago and the tragic consequences it can have on innocent lives. The legal proceedings against Lark, Washington, and Joyce continue as the community seeks justice for Shanklin's untimely death.
