Jonathan Mills, a 26-year-old African American male, was a former standout basketball player from Chicago, Illinois. He was tragically shot and killed on July 25, 2016, near North Lawndale College Prep, the high school where he had once been an all-state player. Mills was preparing to work out at the school when he was gunned down by an unknown assailant. He suffered multiple gunshot wounds and was declared dead at the scene.
His death sent shockwaves through the Chicago basketball community, which held him in high regard for his talent and dedication.
Mills had a promising basketball career, having played at Southern Mississippi University and professionally in Canada and for a Chicago semi-pro team. He had returned to Chicago to rehabilitate an ankle injury and was hopeful of continuing his career overseas. On the day of his death, Mills had planned to work out with his former coaches at North Lawndale. His murder was a devastating blow to his family, friends, and the broader community, who remembered him as a hardworking and beloved figure.
The investigation into Mills' death led to the arrest and subsequent conviction of Travell Taylor, a 27-year-old male. Taylor was found guilty of shooting Mills multiple times outside a store in broad daylight. The trial revealed that Taylor had spoken with Mills and an acquaintance before returning with a gun and opening fire. Despite the conviction, the motive behind the shooting remained unclear, leaving Mills' family with lingering questions and a profound sense of loss. The sentencing hearing for Taylor was scheduled for later that month.
