Chaos broke out in the Loop neighborhood of Chicago last night as hundreds of teenagers gathered in large crowds, disrupting traffic and CTA services.
Multiple reports of fighting and bottles being thrown at buses were made, and gunshots were heard in the area.
Two teenage boys were shot while standing in the crowd, and police arrested 15 people, including six juveniles.
A former Chicago police officer and first-deputy superintendent expressed concern about the economic impact on the city and negative perception with NASCAR and the Democratic National Convention coming to the city.
The Chicago Loop Alliance responded to the large crowds, stating they are prepared to work with relevant parties to respond to these trends.
Mayor Lori Lightfoot called the unrest “disrespectful and unlawful” and urged parents and guardians to be responsible for their children’s actions.
