Martina L. Mosby, a 43-year-old African American woman, was tragically killed in Chicago’s first homicide of 2025. The incident occurred in the early hours of January 1st at her home in the 1200 block of South Sawyer Avenue in North Lawndale. Mosby had been celebrating the New Year with her long-time boyfriend, 38-year-old Reginald Freeman, and her 18-year-old daughter when the situation took a violent turn.
According to reports, Freeman fired a gun off the back porch during the celebration, and Mosby’s daughter also fired a few rounds. Shortly afterward, Mosby and Freeman engaged in a brief argument, which escalated when Freeman retrieved a second firearm. He then allegedly fired multiple shots, striking Mosby several times.
Emergency responders arrived at the scene and transported Mosby to Mount Sinai Hospital, where she was pronounced dead shortly after arrival. Police recovered eleven shell casings at the scene, which were consistent with the. 40-caliber firearm Freeman had allegedly used. Following the shooting, Freeman fled the scene and attempted to hide both weapons in a trash can. He also reportedly tried to prevent Mosby’s daughter from calling 911. Authorities later arrested Freeman in the 3200 block of West Roosevelt Road, minutes after the shooting.
Freeman has been charged with first-degree murder and is currently being held in jail while awaiting trial. His criminal history includes a 2017 case in which he was charged with unlawful use of a weapon and aggravated assault, though the charges were dropped when the complainant failed to appear in court. Prosecutors have emphasized the severity of the case, and Freeman is expected to face a judge soon. The tragic death of Mosby has left her family and community in mourning, as they grapple with the devastating loss of a beloved mother and partner.
