15-Year-Old Martay Dotson Killed, Another Teen Injured in Douglass Park Shooting
A devastating act of violence tore through the heart of Chicago’s Douglass Park on the evening of June 26, 2020, claiming the life of 15-year-old Martay Dotson and leaving another teenage boy critically wounded. The incident, which occurred just after 7:00 p.m. near South Sacramento Drive, has left a neighborhood reeling, as grief, outrage, and confusion ripple through a community already burdened by the toll of youth violence.
According to the Chicago Police Department, officers responded to reports of shots fired in the park and found two teenage boys suffering from multiple gunshot wounds. Witnesses reported hearing a rapid series of gunshots before seeing the teens collapse to the ground. First responders rushed both victims to nearby Mount Sinai Hospital, where Martay Dotson was pronounced dead a short time later. The second teen, whose name has not been released due to his age, remains in critical condition and is receiving intensive medical care.
Authorities are continuing to investigate the shooting, but as of now, no suspects have been arrested. Preliminary reports suggest that the teens may have been targeted, but police have not confirmed a motive or released further details. Detectives are reviewing surveillance footage from nearby cameras and urging anyone with information to come forward.
The loss of Martay Dotson has sent shockwaves through his family, school, and neighborhood. Known for his bright smile, quick wit, and love for basketball, Martay was a rising high school sophomore with dreams of playing sports at the collegiate level. Friends described him as humble and lighthearted, someone who could make people laugh even in the darkest moments.
“He was just a kid, full of life and potential,” said his cousin, standing near a growing memorial of candles, teddy bears, and handwritten messages left by classmates and neighbors. “We’re devastated. Our hearts are broken.”
The shooting has once again stirred painful conversations about gun violence in Chicago, particularly its impact on Black and brown youth in underserved communities. Residents expressed frustration and fatigue at the seemingly endless cycle of loss and trauma, calling for more resources, mentorship, and community-based interventions to support at-risk youth.
“This isn’t just about one incident,” said community activist Darrell Freeman, who organized a vigil at the scene of the shooting. “This is about a system that continues to fail our children. Martay should still be here, dreaming, playing, growing up. Not being buried.”
Local leaders and school officials have extended condolences to the Dotson family, pledging to support students and faculty affected by the tragedy. Grief counselors have been made available at Martay’s school, where teachers described him as a respectful and motivated student who was working hard to stay on track.
Mayor Lori Lightfoot addressed the incident during a press conference the following day, expressing sorrow over the loss and reaffirming the city’s commitment to combating youth violence. “The loss of any young life is unacceptable,” she said. “We must do more to protect our children and ensure their safety in every neighborhood.”
As Martay’s family prepares for a funeral no parent should ever have to plan, the broader community is left mourning not only a promising life cut short but the ongoing crisis of gun violence that continues to devastate Chicago’s youth. A GoFundMe campaign has been launched to assist with funeral expenses and support the family through this difficult time.
For now, the memory of Martay Dotson lives on in the stories, laughter, and love shared by those who knew him best. His absence will be deeply felt, but his name will not be forgotten—not by his family, not by his community, and not by a city still searching for peace