4 Dead, 14 Injured in Mass Shooting Outside River North Restaurant After Album Party
CHICAGO — A tragic mass shooting late Wednesday night in Chicago’s River North neighborhood has left four people dead and at least 14 others injured, according to police.
The shooting, which unfolded just outside Artis Restaurant and Lounge at 311 W. Chicago Ave., appears to be one of the deadliest in Chicago in recent years.
Drive-By Shooting Targets Crowd Outside Lounge
The violence erupted at 11:02 p.m., when a dark-colored vehicle drove past a group of people gathered outside the restaurant. Someone inside the vehicle opened fire before fleeing the scene, police said.
Victims Identified, Several in Critical Condition
Two women — whose ages have not yet been released — were shot in the chest and taken to Northwestern Memorial Hospital, where they were pronounced dead.
A 24-year-old man shot in the chest and a 25-year-old man shot in the head were taken to Stroger Hospital, where both were also pronounced dead.
Among the 14 wounded, several remain in critical condition:
- A 24-year-old woman shot in the back
- A 25-year-old woman shot in the left leg
- A 21-year-old woman shot in the mouth
A 31-year-old woman, who was shot multiple times, is in serious condition. The remaining victims — 10 men and women ages 24 to 32 — were hospitalized in fair to good condition.
Shooting Followed Rapper’s Album Release Party
The crowd outside Artis was reportedly gathered for an album release party for Chicago rapper Mello Buckzz. The artist posted on Instagram in the aftermath, expressing heartbreak over the violence:
“I don’t wish this typa pain on nobody,” she wrote.
A friend of the rapper also posted video clips from the event, showing attendees celebrating just moments before the shooting occurred.
Scene of Chaos: Blood, Belongings Left Behind
By Thursday morning, remnants of the horror remained. Blood, clothing, and personal belongings were still visible near the stairs by the Chicago Avenue Brown and Purple Line CTA station, steps away from where the gunfire erupted.
Restaurant Responds: “This Shook Us Deeply”
Artis Restaurant addressed the tragedy on social media, stating:
“Artis was created as a safe space… Our hearts are with the victims and their loved ones.”
The establishment confirmed it is cooperating with authorities and taking additional measures to ensure community safety.
“This moment is painful — but it only strengthens our commitment to holding space for those who need it most,” they added.
Not the First Tragedy at the Location
This isn’t the first time this corner of River North has seen tragedy. In 2022, a shooting outside the same building left one man dead and three others wounded, prompting the city to shut down Hush, a bar previously located at the site.
Investigation Ongoing
Police continue to investigate the shooting. As of now, no arrests have been announced.
This is a developing story. Check back for updates as more details become available.
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