11-Year-Old Boy Shot in the Back at North Lawndale Park, Police Investigating

11-Year-Old Boy Shot in the Back at North Lawndale Park, Police Investigating

CHICAGO — June 21, 2025 — An 11-year-old boy was shot in the back while playing in a North Lawndale park Saturday evening, marking yet another disturbing instance of gun violence impacting Chicago’s youth.

According to the Chicago Police Department, officers responded to a call of shots fired around 5:28 p.m. in the 1400 block of South Tripp Avenue, a neighborhood park known to be frequented by families and children. Upon arrival, officers discovered the young boy suffering from a gunshot wound to his lower back.

Emergency services quickly transported the child to Stroger Hospital, where he was listed in good condition as of Saturday night. Thankfully, his injuries are not believed to be life-threatening, though the emotional trauma from such an incident is immeasurable.

A Park Turned Crime Scene

The shooting occurred in broad daylight, during a time when parks typically echo with the sounds of children laughing and playing. Instead, those peaceful sounds were shattered by gunfire.

Witnesses reported hearing several shots ring out and then seeing people scatter in fear. “It was supposed to be a normal Saturday afternoon,” said one area resident, who asked to remain anonymous. “There were kids on bikes, parents chatting on benches. Then—bang, bang, bang—and people were ducking behind cars. I saw that little boy fall, and my heart sank.”

What We Know — and Don’t Know

The identity of the shooter remains unknown, and no arrests have been made as of yet. Police have not released any information on whether the child was the intended target or caught in the crossfire of an unrelated conflict.

The motive for the shooting is also unclear. Investigators are currently combing the area for surveillance footage and canvassing for witnesses who may have seen the suspect flee the scene.

The case is being handled by Area Four Detectives, who are asking the public for help in identifying whoever was responsible.

Community Reactions

The North Lawndale community, which has long battled with issues of poverty and violence, is once again in mourning and disbelief.

“This should never happen—especially not to a child,” said Angela Martinez, a local youth mentor. “We are doing everything we can to give our kids a better life, to give them safe spaces. A park is supposed to be a sanctuary, not a crime scene.”

Another local, James Taylor, added: “It’s hard to believe a kid can’t play outside without risking his life. We’ve got to do better.”

A Pattern of Youth Gun Violence

The shooting comes amid ongoing concerns about youth-related gun violence across Chicago. Over the past year, several minors have been caught in crossfires or targeted in attacks, fueling an urgent call for increased police presence in parks and youth programs aimed at violence prevention.

Advocates point to the need for systemic changes that go beyond policing—focusing on mental health services, mentorship programs, and stronger community engagement to address root causes of violence.

Police Appeal for Information

Authorities are urging anyone who may have witnessed the shooting or who may have information about the shooter’s identity to come forward. Tips can be submitted anonymously via CrimeStoppers at 1-800-535-STOP or through the CPD tip line.

“This child deserves justice,” said a Chicago Police spokesperson. “If you saw something—even if you think it was nothing—please speak up. We cannot solve this without the community’s help.”

Final Thoughts

As the young boy recovers in a hospital bed, his future now marked by a moment of senseless violence, the people of North Lawndale are left to ask once again: How many more children must be harmed before real change is made?

Parks should be safe places for growth, not grounds for gunfire. And as detectives search for answers, Chicago clings to hope that justice will be served—and that healing can begin.