CHICAGO — An 11-year-old boy was shot near the basketball courts at Franklin Park in North Lawndale Saturday evening as families filled the park to escape the summer heat.
Shots Fired During Busy Summer Afternoon
The shooting occurred just before 5:30 p.m. while the park was packed with families and children taking advantage of the hot summer weather. Temperatures had soared into the 90s, making the nearby swimming pool and basketball courts popular spots that evening.
According to police, at least ten shots were fired in the area near the courts, sending parkgoers running for cover. Witnesses described a scene of panic as people fled both the basketball area and pool once the gunfire erupted.
Boy Fled Before Collapsing Nearby
The 11-year-old boy, who was near the gunfire, fled the scene along with many others. Authorities later found him less than half a block away, suffering from a gunshot wound to his lower back.
He was transported to Stroger Hospital, where he was reported to be in good condition, the Chicago Police Department confirmed.
No Suspects or Motive Identified
As of Sunday morning, no arrests had been made. Police have not released a description of the shooter, and the motive behind the attack remains unknown.
The investigation remains active as detectives work to identify witnesses or surveillance footage that may provide leads.
Community Concern Grows
The shooting of such a young child has once again raised concerns about safety in public parks and the continued presence of gun violence in areas where children play.
Franklin Park, located in the heart of North Lawndale, is a community hub that typically offers a safe space for recreation. Saturday’s incident has shaken that sense of security.
Call for Public Assistance
Anyone with information is urged to contact the Chicago Police Department’s Area Four detectives. Tips can be submitted anonymously via CPD’s tip line or online portals.
Do you feel safe letting your children play in local parks this summer? Share your perspective in the comments on ChicagoSuburbanFamily.com.
