In the US, four people were killed and 14 others injured in a mass shooting late last night in Chicago’s River North neighbourhood. Media reports said, at least three victims remain in critical condition.
The shooting occurred outside a restaurant and lounge that was hosting an album release party for a rapper, Mello Buckzz. A vehicle pulled up, and at least one gunman inside it opened fire on a crowd gathered outside before quickly fleeing the scene. Police said no arrests have been made so far, and the investigation is ongoing.
Police said around a dark SUV drove past the nightclub at around 11 p.m., where three people from inside fired shots into a crowd of people standing outside as the crowd was leaving the release party.
Mello Buckzz (real name: Melanie Doyle) issued a series of anguished posts and photos on social media, saying that in part, “Prayers up for all my sisters god please wrap yo arms around every last one of them.”
She added, ” We was having so much fun in our private little life, couldn’t leave each other alone glued to my hip everyday. It’s not a night we ain’t spend together. I’m so fucking angry. U was woke I held yo hand until I couldn’t. U talked to me
“My heart broke into so many pieces rn it’s unbelievable… Feel like everything just weighing down on me…all I can do is talk to god and pray.”
Mello Buckzz, 24, performed at Coachella in 2023 and has released a series of viral hits like “Boom (Mouskatool)” and “Boom Pt. 2,” the latter of which was a collaboration with Atlanta rapper Latto.
Artis Lounge nightclub confirmed they are working with authorities as the investigation continues. Owners released the following statement:
“Last night, an act of violence occurred within the vicinity of our restaurant and it deeply shook us. Artis was created as a safe space. A Space where Black, Brown, Queer, and allied communities could gather, be celebrated, and feel at home in River north.
We’ve always led with that mission. And what happened last night disrupted it in the most painful way. Our hearts are with the victims and their loved ones.”