Chicago Edgewater Shooting Leaves One Dead, Another Critically Injured Near Hayt Elementary School

Authorities in Chicago are investigating a deadly shooting in the city’s Edgewater neighborhood that left one man dead and another critically injured Thursday morning near Stephen K. Hayt Elementary School and Northside Catholic Academy.

According to the Chicago Police Department, the shooting occurred around 7:20 a.m. in the 1400 block of West Thome Avenue, a primarily residential area on the city’s North Side. Officials said the incident unfolded shortly before students arrived for the school day.

Police confirmed that one man was transported to Saint Francis Hospital in Evanston, where he later died from injuries sustained in the shooting. A second man, identified as 53 years old, was also taken to the hospital in critical condition.

Authorities stated that no children were injured or directly involved in the incident despite the shooting occurring near two schools. School officials and local leaders later confirmed that students safely entered the buildings and school operations continued under heightened police presence.

Investigators recovered two firearms from the scene as detectives worked to determine exactly what led to the gunfire. Police have not yet publicly clarified whether the two men exchanged gunfire with one another or whether another suspect may have been involved.

Residents described hearing multiple bursts of gunfire echo through the neighborhood early Thursday morning. One nearby resident told reporters he heard several shots separated by brief pauses before seeing people running through the area.

Neighbors also reported that one of the victims had reportedly been walking a dog when the shooting occurred. Witnesses said the dog remained beside the injured victim until officers secured the area and paramedics began rendering aid.

The shooting deeply unsettled many residents in the normally quiet Edgewater neighborhood, particularly because of its proximity to schools and morning student activity. Community members expressed concern over gun violence occurring so close to children and residential homes.

Belmont Area detectives continue investigating the circumstances surrounding the shooting, and authorities are urging anyone with information or surveillance footage connected to the incident to contact Chicago police.