Ashawn Davis, a 13-year-old boy, was fatally shot on August 11, 2024, in the Edgewater neighborhood of Chicago, Illinois. He was found at approximately 8:16 p.m. with a gunshot wound to the head in an apartment in the 6000 block of North Kenmore Avenue, just a block away from his home.
Ashawn was rushed to Ascension St. Francis Hospital in Evanston, where he was initially listed in critical condition before being pronounced dead.
The community and family of Ashawn Davis were deeply affected by his death. He was remembered as a lovable, friendly, and happy individual who was well-liked by everyone. Ashawn was described as a great basketball player and musician, and he was set to start eighth grade in the coming month.
Ashawn's uncle, Shawn Childs, who is the founder of the anti-violence organization No Kids Die in the Chi (also known as House of Hope), was particularly devastated by the loss. Childs often took Ashawn to anti-violence events, and the boy's death was seen as a tragic irony given Childs' work to prevent such violence.
The shooting that resulted in Ashawn's death is part of a larger pattern of violence in the area. The 6000 block of North Kenmore Avenue has seen five shootings this year, with six people either injured or killed. This includes other incidents such as a 39-year-old man being shot in the leg and multiple adults being injured in previous shootings.
Local leaders and residents are calling for increased police presence and community involvement to address the rising violence. Alderman Leni Manaa-Hoppenworth of the 48th Ward has been working with police, landlords, and local schools to determine the root causes of the violence and to enhance safety measures in the area. Despite some arrests related to previous activity on the block, no one has been taken into custody in connection with Ashawn's murder as of the latest reports.
Ashawn's family, including his mother Teba Stewart, held a memorial and vigil in the neighborhood where he spent his younger years. Stewart vowed to seek justice for her son, emphasizing the need for justice and peace.
The community remains concerned about the safety in the area, with many residents expressing feelings of fear and insecurity. There have been increased police patrols and efforts to gather tips from the community, but the case remains unsolved as of now.
