14-Year-Old Killed in Chicago Shooting; Homicide Ruling Confirmed

BREAKING: A 14-year-old boy has been identified as the victim of a fatal shooting in downtown Chicago during a chaotic night that left eight others injured. The tragic incident occurred on Friday night, and the Cook County medical examiner has ruled his death a homicide.

Armani Floyd was pronounced dead from multiple gunshot wounds at 10:59 p.m. Friday at Northwestern Memorial Hospital. “No parent wants to get that terrible, life-altering call,” said Chicago Mayor Brandon Johnson, emphasizing the profound impact of such senseless violence on families and community safety.

Floyd was discovered alongside another teenager with gunshot wounds at 140 S. Dearborn St.. Eyewitness video footage captures large crowds in the area before they suddenly scattered, indicating the chaos that erupted. Police recovered three 9-mm casings, one live round, and a fired bullet from the scene. An 18-year-old man was also shot in the leg and was in serious condition at the same hospital.

This incident unfolded less than an hour after an unidentified suspect opened fire into a gathering of teenagers outside the Chicago Theatre on the 100 block of North State Street, wounding seven. Officers on patrol heard the gunfire and witnessed the frantic scene as young people fled. Victims from this first shooting ranged in age from 13 to 17, with injuries classified as good to fair. Some suffered graze wounds, while others had more severe injuries to their legs.

Sources indicate that both shootings are connected to a “teen takeover” event that circulated on social media in the days leading up to Friday night. Reports suggest that teens traveled from as far as Dolton and Evanston to attend the gathering following the annual tree-lighting ceremony at Millennium Park. Social media activity had previously warned individuals to avoid the Loop area due to the anticipated event.

As of now, no suspects are in custody for either shooting, and investigations are ongoing. The Chicago Police Department is urging anyone with information to come forward to assist in these critical inquiries.

This wave of violence has left the community shaken, highlighting the urgent need for solutions to ensure the safety of young people in urban settings. With the weekend upon us, officials are on high alert as they continue to monitor the situation closely.

As this story develops, we will provide updates on the investigation and any further details that emerge. Share your thoughts and stay informed as Chicago grapples with this heartbreaking situation.