CHICAGO, IL — At least three people were killed and 16 others injured late Wednesday night, June 2, in a horrific mass shooting outside a downtown Chicago nightclub when people are leaving rapper Rapper Mello Buckzz Album release party .Police say the gunfire erupted just before midnight in the 300 block of West Chicago Avenue in what appears to have been a drive-by shooting.
The violence occurred as guests were leaving the Artis Lounge, where a well-attended album release party for Chicago rapper Mello Buckzz had just concluded. According to authorities, multiple individuals opened fire from a vehicle into the crowd gathered outside the venue, sending partygoers fleeing in panic.
Emergency personnel rushed to the chaotic scene and found numerous victims sprawled across the sidewalk and near parked cars. Despite immediate life-saving efforts, three individuals were pronounced dead either at the scene or after being transported to nearby hospitals. Sixteen others sustained injuries, several of whom remain in critical condition.
Chicago Police Superintendent Larry Snelling addressed the press Thursday morning, condemning the violence and calling it a “brazen, targeted attack.”
“This was not random,” Snelling said. “People gathered to celebrate music and community, and that night was shattered by those who had no regard for human life. We will find those responsible.”
Superintendent Snelling confirmed that investigators are reviewing surveillance footage from nearby businesses and traffic cameras. No arrests have been made, and police have not identified suspects or publicly stated a motive, though the shooting may be linked to an ongoing conflict.
Rapper Mello Buckzz, who hosted the release party, was not injured in the shooting. As of Thursday afternoon, the artist has not released a statement.
Witnesses described scenes of terror and confusion.
“I was just trying to get to my car when I heard what sounded like fireworks, and then people started running everywhere,” said Jasmine Ortiz, a guest at the event. “It was terrifying. I saw people hit the ground.”
The Artis Lounge, a known hotspot for local music events, was surrounded by police and crime scene tape well into Thursday morning as investigators combed through evidence and interviewed witnesses.
Chicago Mayor Brandon Johnson issued a statement expressing outrage and sorrow over the shooting.
“My heart goes out to the families of those who lost their lives and to the many others who are now recovering from this senseless act,” Mayor Johnson said. “Chicago will not tolerate this level of violence, and we will use every resource to hold the shooters accountable.”
City officials have since increased patrols in nightlife districts and are working with violence prevention groups to provide support to the affected community.
Community activist Pastor Corey Brooks emphasized that this tragedy highlights the urgent need to address gun violence at its roots.
“We have to give our young people something better than this,” Brooks said. “This isn’t just about what happened last night — it’s about the system that keeps letting it happen.”
A memorial has begun to take shape outside the nightclub, with candles, balloons, and handwritten messages in honor of the victims.
Police continue to urge anyone with information to contact the Chicago Police Department or submit anonymous tips to CrimeStoppers.
What began as a night to celebrate the achievements of Mello Buckzz has now left families in mourning, a community in shock, and a city once again confronting the brutal toll of gun violence.
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