Family and friends of slain Chicago students hold vigil, demand justice
A year has passed since two Chicago Public Schools students were shot and killed in The Loop
Sunday marks one year since 16-year-old Robert Boston and 17-year-old Monterio Williams were shot and killed in The Loop. Their family and friends gathered near the site where they were killed to give an update on the search for the suspect(s) responsible.
Fighting for Justice
Unfortunately, a year later, we’re still looking for answers. Detectives have been working tirelessly on this case, community activist Lisette Guillen said.
Remembering the Victims
Boston and Williams were students at Innovations High School, a charter school on State Street. According to police, two dark-colored vehicles pulled up as Boston and Williams were leaving school. Shortly after, the suspects started shooting at them. Boston and Williams were rushed to Northwestern Memorial Hospital where they died from their injuries.
A Community in Mourning
Boston’s mother was not in Sunday’s crowd as she had passed away shortly after her son did. Williams’ mother was in attendance and described her son as a “beautiful soul” who should have graduated high school last May. “Monterio loved sports. He was always smiling, just kind-hearted,” Williams’ mother Blondean Gartley said.
Call to Action
Sunday’s group hoped the vigil would spread awareness about what happened to Boston and Williams, and that it would encourage anyone who may have information that can lead to an arrest to forward. “We got to stop hiding. We got to stop keeping things secret and I understand it may be family members of ours or friends, but if we don’t stop it, help each other, then it’s never going to stop,” Gartley said.
Investigation Updates
Chicago police said they believe this was an isolated incident and that they were looking at surveillance cameras in the area for clues. The suspects were said to be wearing masks. They fled the area after the shooting, according to investigators.
Conclusion
As the one-year mark has passed since the tragic incident, the community is still reeling from the loss of these two young lives. The vigil serves as a reminder of the ongoing struggle for justice and the need for continued support and vigilance in the face of violence and crime.
FAQs
Q: How many suspects are believed to have been involved in the shooting?
A: Police have not specified the number of suspects.
Q: Are there any updates on the investigation?
A: Chicago police have been working on the case, but there are no updates available at this time.
Q: What is being done to prevent similar incidents in the future?
A: The community is coming together to support each other and to demand change. Organizations are working to address the root causes of violence and to provide support to families affected by crime.
