CHICAGO — A 38-year-old man was hospitalized with an eye injury after being struck by a paintball in a drive-by assault late Sunday night on Chicago’s Near North Side, according to Hoodline.
The attack occurred around 11 p.m. in the 100 block of West Schiller Street, just off Clark Street. Authorities say the man was walking when a red sedan pulled up and opened fire using a paintball gun.
The vehicle fled in an unknown direction, leaving the victim with a direct injury to the eye. He was transported to Northwestern Memorial Hospital, where he was treated and listed in good condition, according to CBS Chicago.
No Arrests So Far — Pattern of Paintball Incidents
This is not the first time such incidents have occurred in the area. Police sources told ABC 7 Chicago that multiple recent paintball attacks have been reported on Chicago’s Near North Side, and none have resulted in arrests.
“No other injuries were reported and no one is in custody,” CBS noted, adding that the attack was unprovoked and the suspects remain at large.
So far, there is no suspect description, and authorities have not determined a motive behind the assault. The incident is now under investigation by Area Three detectives, who are urging residents to report any related suspicious behavior or video footage from the vicinity.
Community Growing Concerned
While the weapon involved may not have been lethal, police say these types of attacks pose serious risk — particularly to vulnerable areas like the face and eyes.
Incidents like these have prompted renewed concern in neighborhoods like Gold Coast and Old Town, where drive-by-style attacks using paintball or BB guns are on the rise.
Have You Seen Suspicious Vehicles in Your Area?
Should paintball assaults be treated more seriously under city law? Share your experiences or suggestions in the comments below — your voice helps keep Chicago safe and alert.
