Introduction: A Tragic Loss in Chicago's Englewood Neighborhood

In the early hours of August 16, 2014, the Englewood neighborhood of Chicago was shaken by the tragic death of 16-year-old Shaquise Buckner. A bright and ambitious high school sophomore, Shaquise became an unintended victim of the city's pervasive gun violence, leaving her family and community in mourning and seeking justice.

A Bright Future Ahead: Shaquise's Academic Aspirations

Shaquise was more than just a statistic; she was a dedicated student with dreams of a brighter future. Attending Perspectives Charter School, she consistently earned straight A's and was on track to enroll in Advanced Placement (AP) classes. Her passion for learning extended beyond the classroom, with aspirations to become a forensic scientist—a dream fueled by her love for crime investigation television shows. Her mother, Katrina Goodwin, fondly recalled her daughter's enthusiasm for her studies and her ambition to be the first in the family to attend college. ...Read More