On July 4, 2024, a devastating mass shooting occurred in the Grand Crossing neighborhood of Chicago, resulting in the deaths of two women and a young boy, and critically wounding three other children.
Capri Edwards, a 24-year-old woman, was one of the victims. She was the niece of Nakeeshia Strong, 45, who was also killed in the incident. The shooting took place around 6:15 a.m. in the 7100 block of South Woodlawn Avenue, where Strong owned the residence that was targeted.
According to witnesses and police, two vehicles pulled up to the house, and multiple individuals, some wearing ski masks, exited the vehicles and opened fire on the residence using both a rifle and a handgun.
Edwards was transported to the University of Chicago Hospital, where she succumbed to her injuries shortly after arrival. Her aunt, Nakeeshia Strong, was pronounced dead at the scene. An 8-year-old boy, identified as Bryson Orr, also died from his injuries later that evening at Comer Children's Hospital.
The attack appeared to be targeted and stemmed from a personal dispute, according to Chicago Police Deputy Chief Don Jerome. Edwards was noted for her bravery as she shielded her 1-year-old child from the gunfire, ensuring the child's safety. Two of Edwards' other children, a 5-year-old boy and a 7-year-old boy, along with an 8-year-old cousin, were critically wounded and taken to Comer Children's Hospital for treatment.
As of the current date, no suspects are in custody, and the investigation is ongoing. Area 1 detectives are working to identify the perpetrators using video surveillance and other evidence. The community and local authorities have expressed deep condolences to the families affected and are urging anyone with information to come forward to help bring those responsible to justice.
