A mass shooting at a private gathering in Kankakee’s 7th Ward has left the community reeling. At least 30 rounds were fired, claiming the lives of two stepbrothers and injuring no one else. Mayor Chris Curtis described the incident as “utterly unacceptable” and “avoidable.”
Curtis stated that while most people in Kankakee are good, it only takes a few individuals to cause harm. He acknowledged that witnesses failing to come forward has hindered the police investigation.
“We had 50 people in a house and no one knows what happened,” Curtis said. “It’s frustrating because we need cooperation from the public.”
Kankakee Alderman Larry Osenga emphasized the importance of witness cooperation, saying “Police aren’t miracle workers. If people aren’t cooperating, there is only so much that can be done.”
Osenga also highlighted a disturbing trend: many witnesses have remained silent about the incident, citing a lack of transparency in the past as an excuse. This has led to concerns that some individuals are unwilling to step forward and help law enforcement find those responsible.
The investigation into the shooting is ongoing, but officials stress the need for public cooperation to crack the case.
Source: https://www.shawlocal.com/daily-journal/2025/01/02/at-least-30-rounds-fired-in-kankakee-new-years-day-shooting