On May 5, 2024, a tragic incident occurred in the Gage Park area of Chicago's Southwest Side, resulting in the death of 20-year-old Guillermo Caballero, also known as "Memito." The incident took place during a so-called "street takeover" at the intersection of 59th Street and Western Avenue around 3:15 a.m..
Caballero was driving through the intersection when he was shot multiple times by two gunmen.
He was traveling in his vehicle and was not a participant in the street takeover, according to his family and local authorities. The shooting occurred as Caballero was heading home after spending time with friends.
The victim suffered multiple gunshot wounds, primarily from shots fired through the front windshield of his vehicle. Emergency responders were called to the scene, and upon arrival, they found Caballero with severe injuries. He was pronounced dead at the scene.
Caballero's family described him as a vibrant and supportive individual who was just days away from moving out of the city with his family to start a new life in the southwest suburbs. His girlfriend, Rocio Lemus, with whom he had been in a relationship for six years, mentioned that they were already packing and preparing to leave the city due to the persistent violence in the area.
The Chicago police are currently investigating the incident, and Area One Detectives are seeking any evidence, including pictures or videos from the street takeover, to help identify the perpetrators. As of now, no suspects are in custody.
Caballero's family has set up a fundraiser to help cover his funeral expenses and is demanding justice for his untimely death. The incident has also prompted his cousin, Elizabeth Caballero, to consider leaving the city due to the ongoing violence.
