A Community in Mourning

In September 2016, the Brainerd neighborhood on Chicago's South Side was gripped by tragedy. Residents gathered to mourn the loss of 23-year-old Nahmar T. Holmes, who had been fatally shot outside his home on the 8900 block of South Justine Street. The somber vigil was intended to honor his memory and provide solace to grieving loved ones.

A Vigil Interrupted by Violence

The evening of September 11, 2016, took a horrific turn when a gray minivan approached the assembled mourners. Two individuals exited the vehicle and opened fire on the crowd. Among those struck was 18-year-old Shantell "Keekee" Fleming, a resident of the same block. She sustained a gunshot wound to the head and was pronounced dead at Little Company of Mary Hospital in Evergreen Park shortly thereafter. Two teenage boys, aged 16 and 17, were also wounded in the attack and transported to Christ Medical Center in Oak Lawn for treatment....Read More