Introduction to the Closure of Artis Restaurant & Lounge
CHICAGO — Just weeks after a deadly mass shooting left four dead and 14 others injured outside of a business in River North, the owners have announced they are closing the doors for good.
The Announcement
In a social media post shared late Tuesday night, Artis Restaurant and Lounge announced that it would be shutting down permanently. "It’s with a heavy heart, but clear mind that we announce the closing of Artis Restaurant & Lounge," the image shared by the restaurant read.
Background on the Mass Shooting
‘Absolute chaos:’ 4 killed, 14 hurt in River North mass drive-by shooting. While the business did not say what exactly led to the closure, in the caption of the post, the owners elaborated on the decision. "Two weeks ago, our lives were forever changed. During the mass shooting that took place outside our restaurant, we—along with members of our team and family—were inside. What was supposed to be a night of artistry, laughter, and connection turned into a moment of unimaginable fear and heartbreak," the post read.
Response and Aftermath
Father of rapper who hosted album release party ahead of River North mass shooting indicted on federal gun charges. The closures come just two weeks after a mass shooting unfolded outside of the business, located near the 300 block of West Chicago Avenue.
(Photo: WGN)
(Photo: WGN)
Details of the Shooting
Police said the shooting occurred around 11 p.m. on Wednesday, July 2, as a crowd exited the business. The crowd had gathered for an album release party for “HollyHOOD The Mixtape,” the latest release by Chicago rapper Mello Buckzz. Officers said as the crowd exited the event space, gunfire erupted from a dark-colored vehicle, leaving 18 wounded, four fatally.
Impact on the Community
River North mass shooting: What we know about the victims. The victims ranged in age from 21 to 32, five of them men and 13 of them women. Cellphone video obtained by WGN News captured the chaotic scene moments after the mass shooting. The deadly shooting prompted the city to temporarily shut down a business, marking the second time a business at the address has been closed following violence.
Previous Incidents
Video shows chaotic scene after River North mass shooting. The business that occupied the space before, Hush nightclub, closed after one person was killed and three others were wounded in a 2022 shooting outside the club. Artis Restaurant and Lounge, owned by Chef Brandi Artis, who once competed on a Food Network show, then opened in the space in April.
Community Concerns
River North shooting raises concerns over neighborhood’s crime trends. Following the shooting, the Artis team released a statement, saying: “Artis was created as a safe space. A space where Black, Brown, Queer, and allied communities could gather, be celebrated, and feel at home in River North. We’ve always led with that mission. And what happened last night disrupted it in the most painful way.”
Official Response
After the shooting and temporary closure, Ald. Brendan Reilly (42nd Ward), who represents the ward where the incident unfolded, said he was working to make the closure permanent. In a social media post shared late Monday night, Buckzz addressed the shooting, calling it “senseless.” River North mass shooting: City closes property with history of violence.
Call for Information
As the search continues, authorities have announced a $10,000 reward for information leading to the arrest of the individual or individuals responsible for the deadly shooting. To claim the reward, those with information are asked to contact the Crime Stoppers Tip Line at 1-800-535-STOP (7867).
Conclusion
The closure of Artis Restaurant & Lounge is a tragic consequence of the violent incident that occurred outside its premises. The community is still reeling from the aftermath, and the search for those responsible continues. The incident highlights the need for increased safety measures and community support to prevent such tragedies in the future.
FAQs
Q: What happened at Artis Restaurant & Lounge?
A: A mass shooting occurred outside the restaurant, resulting in four deaths and 14 injuries.
Q: Why is Artis Restaurant & Lounge closing?
A: The owners announced the permanent closure due to the traumatic event and its impact on the business and community.
Q: What was the event that was taking place at the time of the shooting?
A: An album release party for Chicago rapper Mello Buckzz.
Q: Is there a reward for information about the shooting?
A: Yes, a $10,000 reward is being offered for information leading to the arrest of those responsible.
