COUNTRY CLUB HILLS, Ill. (CBS) – A teenage boy was shot and killed Friday evening after a homecoming football game at Hillcrest High School.
Police say the shooting happened in the 17400 block of South Pulaski Road around 9 p.m. Officers were dispersing a group of people when shots were fired by an unknown perpetrator.
During the incident, the victim, identified by the medical examiner as 14-year-old Marshawn Mitch, suffered a gunshot wound and life-threatening injuries, police said.
He was taken to an area hospital and later pronounced dead.
The Hillcrest Hawks football team posted on their social media about the shooting:
“We are all saddened by the events that occurred tonight following our Homecoming Football game against Oak Forest. There is an active investigation by all relevant authorities! We pray for everyone involved! Please pray for our staff and students affected by this unfortunate, senseless act of violence!”
According to the school’s website, the homecoming dance was scheduled for Saturday evening but has since been canceled.
District 228 will offer support resources to anyone affected on Monday. by the incident.
Cook County Commissioner Monica Gordon also released a statement on the shooting:
“The murder of Hillcrest teen Marshawn Mitchell this weekend is another example that no place is safe from gun violence. On an occasion when students, alumni, family members and staff of Hillcrest High School should be having fun, the evening ends with the senseless death of a 14-year-old.
Unfortunately, gun violence is the leading cause of death among children, teens and young adults under the age of 25 in Cook County. This cannot continue. We have to find a way to keep guns out of the hands of irresponsible people. We must find a way to stop the flow of weapons from neighboring countries into our communities. We must find a way to show our young people the value of their lives and the lives of others.
Last month, I announced the creation of the 5th District Violence Prevention Advisory Council. Tragedies like this are why we must all work together to protect our young people. Our communities, our cities and our province cannot afford to lose another promising life.“
The shooting remains under investigation by Country Club Hills police.
Anyone with information about the shooting is asked to contact CCHPD at 708-798-3191. Information can also be submitted anonymously through the SWORN tip line at 708-206-2899.
