In a fatal shooting on Chicago, Illinois’ Near West Side, seven-year-old Jai’mani Amir Rivera lost his life on Tuesday, June 18, 2024. The unfortunate incident happened around 3 p.m. on the 2300 block of West Jackson Boulevard as the young boy was exiting his home to visit a neighbor.
Upon arrival, the police found Rivera suffering from a gunshot wound to the chest. Despite immediate life-saving efforts and quick transportation to Stroger Hospital, the child was declared dead shortly after being admitted.
In a subsequent press conference, CPD Superintendent Larry Snelling expressed deep regret and anger over the needless violence. “The random shooting of this seven-year-old is unacceptable,” Snelling noted. “We have to think about who we are as a society when our kids are being shot in the street.”
Snelling confirmed that 13 rounds were discharged during the event, and the bullet that hit Rivera was fired from outside the gated Oakley Square Apartments complex where he lived.
The ongoing investigation into Rivera’s tragic death has led to the apprehension of a person of interest, a 16-year-old with an outstanding warrant for a previous robbery. He was identified by police from security camera footage. Superintendent Snelling underscored that Rivera was not the intended target of the shooting, which saw multiple rounds fired from a significant distance. The 16-year-old’s name was not released because he is a minor but he will be charged as an adult.
Chicago’s Mayor Brandon Johnson also addressed the issue of the city’s ongoing problem with gun violence. He stressed the pressing need to stop these violent acts, pointing out the surge of weapons into Chicago and nationwide. He emphasized the vital importance of halting this influx and making sure those accountable are brought to justice.
The Cook County Medical Examiner’s Office confirmed Rivera’s identity and underscored the wider issue of gun violence impacting young lives in the city.
Superintendent Snelling stated that 127 children and teens under 18 have been victims of gun violence in 2024, with 17 fatalities. “Those numbers are significantly down from last year, but still unacceptable,” he added.
The Oakley Square Apartments, Rivera’s home, is a gated community. Residents described the area as risky due to frequent gunfire, and they often keep their children indoors out of safety concerns.
The shooting has sparked renewed debates over the need for thorough plans to tackle gun violence in Chicago. Superintendent Snelling criticized the local judiciary and State’s Attorney Kim Foxx’s office for ineffectively prosecuting violent offenders, while Mayor Johnson defended his administration’s investments in community programs and violence prevention initiatives.
As the investigation progresses, the Chicago Police Department has increased patrols in the area and is asking anyone with information about the shooting to step forward.
