Teen Killed, Another Injured in Douglass Park Shooting; Chicago Park District Employee Charged
CHICAGO — A senseless act of violence at Douglass Park in Chicago’s North Lawndale neighborhood has left one teenager dead, another seriously injured, and an entire community shaken. Authorities have confirmed that Charles Leto, a 55-year-old Chicago Park District employee, has been arrested and charged.
The tragic incident unfolded in the late hours of Saturday, June 28, 2025, when residents in the vicinity of Douglass Park reported hearing multiple gunshots. Chicago police officers arrived to a harrowing scene just after 9:00 p.m., discovering two teenage boys, ages 15 and 17, suffering from gunshot wounds near the park’s basketball courts. Despite the efforts of first responders, the 15-year-old was pronounced dead at the scene. The 17-year-old victim was rushed to Mount Sinai Hospital in critical condition and is currently undergoing surgery, according to hospital officials.
Witnesses say the park, usually a gathering place for neighborhood families and youth, was crowded with young people enjoying the warm summer evening when the shooting erupted. Many who were present described a moment of chaos and disbelief as gunfire rang out in what should have been a safe public space.
Chicago Police Department spokesperson Officer Norma Morales stated during a press briefing Sunday morning that investigators were able to swiftly identify and apprehend the suspect thanks to eyewitness accounts and park surveillance footage. Charles Leto, who had worked for the Chicago Park District for over two decades, was taken into custody at his home without incident. He now faces multiple felony charges, including first-degree murder and attempted murder.
The motive behind the shooting remains unclear, and authorities have not released information on whether there was any prior interaction or altercation between Leto and the victims. Investigators are working to determine if the act was premeditated or if mental health issues played a role. The case has also prompted internal scrutiny at the Chicago Park District regarding employee conduct and oversight.
North Lawndale residents are grappling with the emotional aftermath of the tragedy. Community leaders and activists gathered at the park Sunday afternoon for a candlelight vigil to honor the lives of the victims and call for peace in a neighborhood long plagued by cycles of violence. Grieving family members, local clergy, and neighbors lit candles, offered prayers, and demanded justice and accountability.
“We are devastated and heartbroken,” said Yolanda Greene, a local youth mentor who has worked with teens at Douglass Park for years. “Our kids deserve to feel safe when they come to play basketball or hang out with friends. This tragedy is beyond comprehension.”
Chicago Mayor Brandon Johnson issued a statement condemning the violence and expressing condolences to the victims’ families. “This city mourns the loss of another young life. I have instructed city departments to fully cooperate with the investigation and ensure the safety of our parks. Every child in Chicago should be able to enjoy our public spaces without fear.”
The Chicago Park District has placed Leto on immediate suspension pending the outcome of the criminal proceedings. A spokesperson noted that the agency is cooperating fully with law enforcement and reviewing its employee background checks and training protocols.
Meanwhile, trauma counselors have been deployed to local schools and community centers to support young people affected by the shooting, and city officials are urging anyone with information to come forward.
As North Lawndale tries to heal, the loss of a young life and the violence perpetrated by someone entrusted to safeguard the community’s recreational space serve as a stark reminder of the urgent need to address safety, mental health, and community investment in underserved neighborhoods.
The investigation remains ongoing. Anyone with information is encouraged to contact the Chicago Police Department’s Area Four detectives.