Young Woman Killed, Four Injured in Tragic Mass Shooting Near 87th and Dan Ryan — Chicago Mourns Loss of Arneka “Nek Nek” Hall
The city of Chicago is reeling from yet another heart-wrenching act of senseless gun violence that shattered lives and devastated families late Saturday night. What should have been a typical summer evening turned into a nightmare near 87th Street and the Dan Ryan Expressway when gunfire erupted in a crowded area, leaving five people shot and one young woman, Arneka Hall—affectionately known as “Nek Nek”—tragically dead.
The shooting occurred shortly before midnight, as the streets buzzed with activity on Chicago’s South Side. Witnesses reported a sudden hail of bullets as chaos broke out near the expressway. First responders arrived swiftly to a scene of horror, where they discovered multiple gunshot victims. Among them was 26-year-old Arneka Hall, a beloved daughter, sister, and friend whose life was senselessly cut short in the violence.
Arneka was pronounced dead at the scene. Four other individuals, ranging in age from their early 20s to mid-30s, were rushed to area hospitals with various injuries. Authorities have not released the names of the other victims, though they have confirmed that some remain in serious condition.
As of Sunday morning, no arrests had been made, and detectives continue to investigate the circumstances surrounding the shooting. Surveillance footage, eyewitness accounts, and ballistic evidence are being reviewed as police work to piece together what led to this brutal attack. Chicago Police officials have called on the community for any information that may lead to the apprehension of those responsible.
A Life Lost Too Soon
Arneka Hall, widely known by her nickname “Nek Nek,” was a young woman full of life, laughter, and dreams. Described by friends and loved ones as radiant and nurturing, Arneka had a personality that lit up every room she entered. She was deeply connected to her community and had a special talent for making others feel seen and valued.
“She had the biggest heart,” said one close friend through tears. “She was the kind of person who would check in on you even if she had her own problems going on. Losing her like this—it doesn’t feel real.”
Family members shared that Arneka was passionate about mentoring local youth and had aspirations of one day starting a small business. She was a fierce advocate for her family, often taking care of younger relatives and organizing community events. Her death has left a gaping hole in the lives of all who knew her.
A City Grieving Yet Again
This latest mass shooting adds to a growing list of tragedies that have shaken Chicago this summer. Community leaders, clergy, and activists gathered Sunday at the scene to call for an end to the relentless violence that continues to claim innocent lives.
“We are tired of burying our children,” said a local pastor during a makeshift vigil held on the corner where Arneka was killed. “Tired of praying over bullet holes in sidewalks. Tired of seeing mothers fall to the ground in agony. This has to stop.”
City officials and advocacy groups are pushing for stronger community-based intervention programs, mental health resources, and initiatives that aim to address the root causes of urban gun violence—poverty, systemic neglect, lack of opportunity, and cycles of trauma.
A Call for Justice
As the investigation continues, Arneka’s family and friends are pleading with the public to come forward with any tips or information that might lead to justice. A reward has reportedly been offered for any information leading to an arrest in the case.
“We don’t want revenge. We want justice,” said a family spokesperson. “We want to know that the person or people who did this can’t do it to someone else’s child.”
Arneka Hall’s life, though tragically short, was filled with love, ambition, and community spirit. Her death is not just another statistic—it’s a devastating loss that underscores the urgent need for change in a city that continues to be plagued by gun violence.
Funeral arrangements are expected to be announced in the coming days. In the meantime, the community has created a memorial at the scene of the shooting—flowers, candles, and messages of love now mark the sidewalk where she last stood.
As Chicago mourns yet another life taken too soon, the call grows louder: not one more. Not one more young life lost to the barrel of a gun. Not one more family broken by a bullet.
Rest in peace, Arneka “Nek Nek” Hall. Your light and legacy will never be forgotten.