Chicago Leaders Push for Gun Violence Department After Deadly Weekend

Chicago city leaders are set to announce their support for a dedicated Department of Gun Violence Prevention following a violent weekend that saw eight people killed and 38 wounded in shootings, according to multiple reports. The proposed department aims to address the surge in violence through coordinated efforts.

The weekend's violence began on Thursday evening with several incidents, including a drive-by shooting that left a 32-year-old man dead in the Chatham neighborhood and another fatal shooting of a 14-year-old boy in Auburn Gresham. On Friday night, a red SUV pulled up to a crowd near West 95th Street, where two suspects opened fire, wounding 13 people aged between 17 and 47. Another shooting on Saturday night wounded three individuals during a large gathering in North Lawndale.

In response to the violence, Mayor Brandon Johnson expressed his condolences and vowed to hold those responsible accountable. "What should have been a night of celebration and community reflection for Juneteenth was shattered by a horrific act of violence," Johnson said on X. President Donald Trump also weighed in, renewing his call for federal intervention to address crime in Chicago.

As the city grapples with the aftermath, community leaders and elected officials are looking for long-term solutions. Violence prevention advocates emphasize the need for continued support for those working on the streets every day. Research from Northwestern University found a 41% drop in violence after implementing Peacekeepers in more than 200 hotspots.

On Monday morning, Chicago Deputy Mayor for Community Safety Emmanuel Andre and other community leaders are expected to join together to call for the dedicated Department of Gun Violence Prevention. The move comes as part of a broader effort to reduce gun violence and support communities affected by the recent surge in shootings.