Hundreds of teenagers are seen on video swarming the streets of downtown Chicago, smashing car windows, attacking bystanders. Tourists are seen on the video running after hearing the sound of gunfire.
Authorities announced a 6-year-old boy was shot in the arm near the Chicago Loop and a 17-year-old boy was shot in the leg. Both were taken to Northwestern Hospital and listed in fair condition, according to a report from WLS. Fox 32 reported that the chaos appeared to be another “Teen Takeover” of the city that was planned on social media, noting that a similar scene played out in Chicago last year.
‘Teen Takeover’ terrorizes Chicago as hundreds of teenagers destroy property, attack tourists pic.twitter.com/miXKjELZTP
— Anny (@anny25717503) April 16, 2023
A woman who lives in Chicago did an interview with Fox 32 and spoke about the chaos saying, “What I see out here is completely ludacris to be honest with you. I’m from Chicago and I understand kids having a good time, but this is simply bad parenting. We have to do better as parents our kids should not be out here. Where are they parents at?” She questioned.Â
Large groups of teens were seen blasting music from Bluetooth speakers and roaming in front of traffic, with some attempting to gain access to the city’s Millennium Park, which is off-limits to those under 21 after certain hours, and the downtown Art Institute.
Some teens in the group began jumping up and down on cars, smashing windows and attacking people inside. One woman told Fox 32 her husband was attacked from the driver side of his vehicle and beaten after a group of teens jumped up and down on the couple’s windshield. The man was taken to a local hospital for treatment.
Chicago has gained a reputation as a dangerous city due to its high rates of violent crime, particularly homicides. There are many complex factors that contribute to the city’s violence, including poverty, gang activity, drug trafficking, racial segregation, and access to firearms.
Poverty and economic inequality have long been issues in many neighborhoods in Chicago, and these conditions can create a sense of hopelessness and desperation that can fuel criminal behavior. Gang activity and drug trafficking are also significant contributors to violence in Chicago, as gangs and drug dealers often engage in turf wars and other violent conflicts.
Racial segregation is another factor that has contributed to the city’s violence. Many of the neighborhoods with the highest rates of violence are predominantly African American, and residents of these neighborhoods often experience discrimination, limited economic opportunities, and lack of access to quality education and healthcare.