CHICAGO — A man who was shot during a violent robbery in Chicago’s Avondale neighborhood is now home from the hospital and speaking publicly about his experience — and his long road to recovery.
Shot Despite Complying with Robber’s Demands
Jay Gabel was walking near Milwaukee and Belmont avenues just before 9 p.m. on Tuesday when an armed robber approached him on the sidewalk. Gabel said the man pointed a gun and demanded his wallet.
“I kind of froze for a minute, pulled the phone away from my ear, and handed him my wallet,” Gabel recalled. But despite complying, he was still shot. “There was no reason for him to shoot at me at that point, and that’s the part that really bothers me,” he said during an interview with CBS News Chicago .
Injuries and Hospital Recovery
The bullet shattered Gabel’s fibula and remains lodged in his leg following surgery. He spent two days in the hospital and now uses a walker to get around. Doctors estimate it will take at least six months of physical therapy before he might walk unaided.
“I’m still one of the lucky ones. I’m here to talk about it. I’m walking two days after I got shot,” Gabel said.
Avondale Neighbors Stepped In To Help
Gabel expressed gratitude for Avondale residents who came to his aid before police arrived, calling it a reminder that “people in Chicago still look out for each other.”
Despite the trauma, he remains focused on healing and hopes police will find the gunman. He said investigators told him the suspect may have been involved in another armed robbery nearby, raising concerns of a pattern.
A Message to the Gunman
Gabel had strong words for the person who shot him: “What did you have to gain from this? Nothing. You’re an idiot, and you’re a coward.”
The Chicago Police Department continues to investigate the incident and has not yet made any arrests.
Have you witnessed rising crime in your neighborhood? Share your story and join the conversation at ChicagoSuburbanFamily.com.
