Tragedy Strikes at Wrightwood Restaurant: 2 Customers Fatally Shot by Employee

Shooting Occurs During Argument at JJ Fish & Chicken

An employee of a JJ Fish & Chicken restaurant has been charged in the shooting deaths of two customers during an argument Monday night on the Southwest Side.

Circumstances Surrounding the Shooting

Two unidentified men, 55 and 56, were quarreling with worker Mehdi Medellel inside the restaurant, at 7828 S. Western Ave. in the Ashburn neighborhood, when he opened fire about 10:30 p.m., Chicago police said.

Victim Profiles

The younger man was shot in his face, and the older man was shot in his head, police said. Both were dead at the scene.

Police Investigation

The Cook County medical examiner’s office confirmed the deaths but had not released their identities Tuesday night.

Arrest and Charges

Medellel, 42, was found about 30 minutes after the shooting in the 1700 block of West 79th Street and was arrested, police said. He is facing two counts of first-degree murder and will appear at a detention hearing Wednesday.

Community Reacts to the Tragedy

The restaurant remained closed late Tuesday morning in a strip mall near Western Avenue and 79th Street, though its open sign remained flashing. There were no signs that a double slaying had occurred there the night before.

A woman who showed up to buy chicken for her workplace was disappointed to learn the restaurant was closed and was sad to hear about the deaths.

“I wish they didn’t have done that,” said the woman, who asked not to be named.

Other Businesses in the Area

Most other businesses in the strip mall were vacant: a former Chinese food restaurant, a clothing store, and cellphone store. Employees of a car insurance business said they were closed at the time of the shooting and were unaware of the details.

Investigation Ongoing

Area 1 detectives are investigating.

Conclusion

The tragic event has left the community in shock, and the motive behind the shooting is still unknown. The investigation is ongoing, and we will continue to provide updates as more information becomes available.

FAQs

What happened at the JJ Fish & Chicken restaurant?
Two customers were fatally shot by an employee, Mehdi Medellel, during an argument.

How many people were involved in the shooting?
Three people were involved: the two customers and the employee, Mehdi Medellel.

What are the charges against Mehdi Medellel?
Mehdi Medellel is facing two counts of first-degree murder.

Is the restaurant still open?
The restaurant remains closed pending the investigation.

Are the victims’ identities public?
The Cook County medical examiner’s office has not released the victims’ identities yet.