David John Swick, a 56-year-old man from the Chicago area, was fatally shot on October 7, 2024, at a JJ Fish and Chicken restaurant located in the Wrightwood neighborhood near 79th Street and Western Avenue in Chicago.
The incident occurred around 10:30 p.m. when an argument broke out between Swick, another customer, and an employee of the restaurant, 42-year-old Mehdi Medellel.
According to police, the argument escalated, and Medellel pulled out a handgun and fired shots, hitting both customers in the head. Both men, including Swick and another victim identified as Paul Williams, 55, died at the scene.
Mehdi Medellel, the restaurant's cashier, has been charged with two counts of first-degree murder in connection with the shootings. The incident was reported by another worker at the restaurant who was not present at the time of the shooting but knew one of the victims. She described Swick as a homeless individual who was a regular at the restaurant and did not harm anyone.
Swick's family, particularly his children, are now facing the challenge of raising funds for his funeral. Despite being homeless, Swick's family maintained regular contact with him. The family has started a GoFundMe campaign to cover the end-of-life expenses, as they are not in a financial position to afford a proper burial after dealing with significant losses earlier in the year.
