WRIGLEYVILLE — A daylight shootout near Wrigley Field injured a 26-year-old bystander and sent pedestrians scrambling for cover, as two groups of teens exchanged gunfire in the heart of a major entertainment district. Four suspects remain at large, and Chicago Police are asking for the public’s help identifying them.
According to authorities, the shooting happened just before 7 p.m. on May 15 near the intersection of Waveland and Sheffield avenues — steps from the stadium’s entrance and popular hangouts like Murphy’s Bleachers. The area was active with locals and visitors ahead of the evening’s events.
Witnesses reported that a verbal altercation broke out between two groups of young males, escalating within moments into gunfire across Waveland Avenue. One group fled westbound on Waveland toward the CTA Red Line station at Addison.
Innocent Bystander Caught in Crossfire
During the exchange of fire, a 26-year-old man — who was not involved in the altercation — was struck in the left arm. Police say the victim had been standing outside Murphy’s Bleachers when the gunfire erupted. He was rushed to a local hospital and is expected to recover.
Crime scene investigators recovered 15 shell casings from the north side of Waveland, adjacent to a small surface parking lot. The volume of gunfire raised concerns about safety even in high-foot-traffic zones like Wrigleyville.
CPD Releases Surveillance Images
Immediately after the shooting, officers responded to multiple 911 calls and conducted an emergency sweep of the area, including nearby CTA Red Line stations.
One individual was detained at the Wilson station shortly after the incident but was later released without charges.
On June 2, the Chicago Police Department released surveillance photos of four male suspects believed to be involved. All are described as Hispanic, between the ages of 15 and 17, and were seen entering a CTA station in the aftermath of the shooting.
Detectives with Area Three are leading the investigation. Police are urging anyone who recognizes the individuals to come forward.
Tip Line: Area Three Detectives — (312) 744-8261
Reference: Case #JJ-256188
Wrigleyville Residents Voice Safety Concerns
The shooting, which happened while the neighborhood was crowded with fans and families, has prompted renewed concern among local residents and business owners.
“This is supposed to be one of the safest parts of the city,” said a longtime bar employee who requested anonymity. “When teenagers are firing weapons across a street next to Wrigley, something’s broken.”
Nearby security camera footage is being reviewed, and officials say more images could be released in the coming days.
What Happens Next?
As of now, no arrests have been made. Police continue to gather footage, canvass the area, and monitor CTA traffic records to trace potential travel routes used by the suspects.
Authorities have not publicly stated whether the incident was gang-related, but detectives are considering all motives and possible prior disputes.
Public safety advocates are once again calling for increased police presence during high-attendance days around the stadium, especially in the hours leading up to and following events.
Do you live or work in Wrigleyville? Have you noticed an increase in street altercations or teen-related violence in public areas? Share your thoughts in the comments and let us know what safety measures you’d like to see implemented.
Sources:
- CWB Chicago – “Cops Seek 4 Suspects In Shooting Near Wrigley Field”
- Chicago Police Department Bulletin (Case #JJ-256188)
