4 Dead, 14 Injured in Drive-By Shooting Outside Chicago Album Release Party
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Chicago, IL – July 6, 2025 — A night meant to celebrate music, achievement, and community ended in bloodshed and heartbreak in Chicago’s River North neighborhood, as a drive-by shooting claimed the lives of four people and left at least 14 others wounded just before midnight on Saturday.
The shooting occurred outside the Artist Lounge on Chicago Avenue, where dozens had gathered to attend an album release party for rising rapper Mello Buckzz. The venue had been hosting artists, fans, and local influencers for what was meant to be a night of unity and artistic celebration. But as guests began to leave the event shortly before 11:50 p.m., gunfire erupted in what authorities now describe as one of the deadliest mass shootings in Chicago this year.
Details of the Attack
According to the Chicago Police Department, surveillance footage and witness accounts indicate that a dark-colored SUV drove past the front of the club and opened fire into the crowd with high-powered weapons. Dozens of rounds were fired within seconds, striking people both outside the venue and near parked vehicles.
Emergency crews responded swiftly to the scene, finding multiple victims lying on the sidewalk, in the street, and even inside nearby businesses where they had fled for cover. The four deceased victims were pronounced dead at the scene or shortly after arriving at local hospitals. The 14 injured individuals suffered varying degrees of gunshot wounds; several are reported to be in critical condition, according to hospital officials at Northwestern Memorial Hospital and Rush University Medical Center.
Victims and Identities
As of Sunday morning, the identities of the deceased have not been officially released, pending family notification. However, police say the victims range in age from their early 20s to late 30s, and include both men and women. Some were believed to be affiliated with the music industry, while others were simply fans or employees of the venue.
Investigation Underway
No arrests have been made, and the Chicago Police Department’s Area Three Homicide Unit is leading the investigation. Detectives are currently reviewing security footage, examining ballistics, and interviewing witnesses to piece together the events that led up to the shooting. Authorities believe the attack may have been targeted, though they have not confirmed whether the intended target was a specific individual or related to the event itself.
“We are looking at all possible motives,” said CPD Superintendent Larry Snelling during a press briefing early Sunday. “What we can say is that this was a coordinated, violent act, and those responsible showed no regard for human life.”
Community Response
The city has been rocked by the scale and brutality of the attack, particularly as it occurred in a neighborhood known more for nightlife and tourism than gun violence. River North residents described the scene as “chaotic and horrifying,” with people screaming and diving for cover in every direction.
“This is not just another shooting. This is a massacre,” said Alderman Brian Hopkins, who represents the area. “We can’t keep living like this, where celebrations turn into funerals.”
Mello Buckzz, whose album release was the reason for the event, took to social media early Sunday morning to express heartbreak and shock.
“I am devastated by what happened tonight,” the artist wrote on Instagram. “This was supposed to be a celebration of life, of music, of making it out. My heart goes out to the families of those lost and everyone who was hurt. This wasn’t supposed to happen.”
Calls for Action
The tragedy has renewed calls from activists, city leaders, and residents for stronger gun control, more community engagement, and comprehensive violence intervention strategies. Chicago Mayor Brandon Johnson issued a statement condemning the violence and promising a full-scale investigation.
“Last night’s events were horrific and unacceptable. We will not allow those who deal in violence to dictate the story of our city. My administration is working closely with CPD, local hospitals, and trauma support teams to respond to this tragedy with both urgency and compassion.”
Trauma counselors have been dispatched to assist victims and families, and local nonprofits are mobilizing to provide support and organize a community vigil in memory of the victims.
What Comes Next
As families mourn and a city once again grapples with the devastation of gun violence, the question remains: how long can communities continue to suffer under the weight of repeated tragedy? While police continue the search for the perpetrators, the people of Chicago are left to grieve, protest, and hope for a future where music, joy, and life can be celebrated without fear.
Anyone with information is urged to contact the Chicago Police Department at (312) 744-8261 or submit an anonymous tip via CPD Tip Line or CrimeStoppers. A $25,000 reward is being offered for information leading to an arrest and conviction.