Chicago Residents Frightened Following Drive-By-Shooting Outside Restaurant, Shooting on South Side

A night meant for celebration turned into chaos as gunfire shattered a community’s sense of safety—police continue search for suspects amid rising citywide concerns

Natalie C. Frank, Ph.D July 3, 2025

Chicago Police respond to drive by shooting in River North; Creator/Youtube Screenshot

*Initials used for people interviewed for anonymity

CHICAGO - Terror resulted following a drive by shooting in the River North neighborhood of Chicago which killed 4 and injured 14 in one of the city’s deadliest shootings this year. The drive-by shooting occurred just outside Artis Restaurant and Lounge during a private event, turning a summer night of celebration into one marked by horror and grief.

According to the Chicago Police Department, the shooting unfolded around 11 p.m. on July 2, when a dark-colored vehicle drove past a crowd gathered near the lounge and opened fire. Witnesses say the gunshots rang out rapidly before the vehicle sped away, disappearing into the night. The restaurant was hosting a party for local rapper Mello Buckzz.

All 18 people were shot "in a matter of seconds,” Police Superintendent Larry Snelling said during a press conference. Multiple shell casings were recovered at the scene, including those believed to be from a rifle, he added.

Chicagoans around the city expressed fear and shock at the senseless killings.

"I don't even know what to think," said A.R. of Rogers Park. "It doesn't matter where you are in Chicago. Gunfire can occur anywhere anytime. It's terrifying."

The victims who lost their lives have been identified as two men, aged 24 and 25, and two women, aged 26 and 27. The 14 surviving victims range in age from 21 to 32. Three remain in critical condition—one was shot in the back, another in the leg, and a third in the mouth.

The restaurant was reportedly hosting a party for Chicago rapper Mello Buckzz at the time of the attack, as confirmed by several local news outlets. Although police are still working to determine a motive, Superintendent Snelling made clear that the shooting was not random.

“Clearly, there was some target. This wasn’t just someone deciding they were going to shoot into a crowd,” he said, emphasizing that investigators are combing through surveillance footage and witness reports. No arrests had been made as of Wednesday morning.

"I know they said there was a specific target," L.P. of Edgewater said. "But if that was meant to calm us down, like 'Don't worry if you have no reason to be a target," it didn't help. They just shot into the crowd outside. 18 people shot in seconds? That wasn't targeted, they just shot."

In a heartfelt statement on social media, Artis Restaurant and Lounge expressed sorrow over the tragedy: “Last night, an act of violence happened within the vicinity of our restaurant – and it shook us deeply… This moment is painful – but it only strengthens our commitment to holding space for those who need it most.”

The venue, which describes itself as a safe space for people of color, LGBTQ individuals, and allies, has temporarily closed as it works with law enforcement during the ongoing investigation.

Mello Buckzz also addressed the tragedy on social media, writing: “Prayers up for all my sisters god please wrap yo arms around every last one of them.” In another post, she added: “I don’t wish this typa pain on nobody.”

"We were out at a club not far from the restaurant," said P.G. of Edgewater. "We were paralyzed. We didn't know if we should stay or leave but then they said the police said to shelter in place since they hadn't gotten the shooters."

Chicago Mayor Brandon Johnson voiced his anger and heartbreak at a news conference early Wednesday.

“I’m frustrated and angered by this senseless and cowardice act of violence,” he said. “Shootings like these are a tragic reminder of how far we still have to go as a city.”

The River North incident was one of two mass shootings in Chicago that same night. Another shooting on the far South Side left four more people hospitalized. In response, police have announced increased patrols across the city ahead of Fourth of July celebrations, focusing on high-traffic areas such as parks, lakefronts, and beaches.

"I'm getting our son out of here," said L.W. father of a Northwestern student. "It's not a safe place for anyone."

"We're leaving the city," said A.P., mother of three living in the Southside. "Every time one of my kids leaves the house, I'm terrified I won't see them again. My fear's rubbing off on them. I'm taking them south to live with my family. I don't want to live like this and I don't want my kids in danger all the time."