Tragedy Strikes After Album Release Party in Chicago: 4 Dead, 14 Injured in Drive-By Shooting
Chicago, IL — What began as a celebratory night for rising rapper Mello Buckzz turned into a scene of devastation early Wednesday, July 2. A drive-by shooting outside Artis Restaurant and Lounge left four people dead and 14 others injured, according to Chicago police.
Witnesses say the attack occurred shortly after Mello Buckzz’s album release party concluded. Dozens of young people were gathered outside when gunfire erupted from a passing vehicle.
“It was a chaotic scene,” said witness Roger Tanner to the Chicago Sun-Times. “It was so many young people. I thought they were just having fun.”
The Shooting: Sudden and Devastating
According to CBS News Chicago and NBC Chicago, a dark-colored car pulled up outside the venue, and at least one occupant opened fire on the crowd. The shooter then fled the scene at high speed.
The four victims fatally shot were:
- A 24-year-old man
- A 25-year-old man (shot in the head)
- A 26-year-old woman
- A 27-year-old woman
Three were struck in the chest, and one in the head, per police reports.
Victims and Investigation
The 14 injured range in age from 21 to 32 years old. Four women remain in critical condition, according to the Chicago Sun-Times. No names have been publicly released.
As of now, no arrests have been made. Police are actively reviewing surveillance footage and appealing to the public for information. Authorities have not yet confirmed whether Mello Buckzz was a target or merely present during the event.
History of Violence at the Venue
The site of the shooting, Artis Restaurant and Lounge, previously operated as Hush Chicago, a nightclub that was shut down by the city in 2022 following another deadly incident. At the time, officials labeled it a “public safety threat.”
The recurrence of violence at the same address has reignited debate over venue licensing, event security, and law enforcement presence in nightlife zones across the city.
Calls for Action
Community leaders and residents are calling for immediate measures to ensure safety at late-night venues and to address the root causes of gun violence. Social media has seen an outpouring of sympathy and outrage, with many demanding accountability and change.
Mello Buckzz has not yet commented publicly on the shooting. The rapper was reportedly unharmed.