CHICAGO, IL — A 32-year-old man was shot in the elbow during an apparent road rage incident along DuSable Lake Shore Drive Tuesday morning, according to Chicago police.
The victim, identified as Maalik Gardner, told authorities he was driving southbound near the 700 block of North DuSable Lake Shore Drive, close to Streeterville, when the altercation began just before 11:30 a.m.
Dispute Turned Violent After Traffic Cut-Off
According to Gardner, the conflict started after a black Jaguar SUV allegedly cut him off in traffic.
“I was trying to squeeze in front of him, but his car was quicker. So, he squeezed in front of me and threw his middle finger up,” Gardner recounted.
The two exchanged words while driving alongside each other before the SUV driver reportedly brandished a firearm and fired two shots, striking Gardner in the elbow.
“Bruh, people argue all the time in cars. Why are you shooting a pistol out of your car?” Gardner said in disbelief after the incident.
Victim Stayed Calm, Chased Shooter
Despite being shot, Gardner said he stayed calm, called 911, and followed the shooter’s vehicle as it sped southbound. During the chase, the suspect allegedly dropped off two passengers before fleeing the area.
Gardner eventually pulled over near 1500-block of South Wabash Avenue in the South Loop, where he flagged down a police officer for help.
He was transported to Northwestern Memorial Hospital, where he remained in good condition as of Tuesday evening and is scheduled for surgery on Wednesday.
Investigation Ongoing, Suspect At Large
Authorities reported that multiple bullet holes were found on the passenger side of Gardner’s car. The shooter remains at large, and Area Three detectives are actively investigating.
So far, no arrests have been made, and no other injuries were reported.
Victim Reflects on the Violence
As Gardner recovered in the hospital, he reflected on the senseless escalation:
“We all make mistakes, but I’ll try to be a little bit more kinder from this point. Don’t even try to argue with people no more because they obviously got real short tempers.”
Have you witnessed or been involved in a road rage incident on Chicago roads? How do you think the city can curb such violent confrontations? Share your story and suggestions in the comments.
