An eight-year-old girl was killed by a gunshot wound to the head during a massive Saturday night Chicago shooting that law enforcement officials believe was related to gang activity.
Two young boys, aged one and seven were also shot multiple times and taken in critical condition to a nearby hospital. A nine-year-old boy was grazed by a bullet and was in good condition, according to WFLD.
"Innocent children were struck tonight and one of them tragically succumbed to her wounds," Chicago Deputy Police Chief Don Jerome said at a press conference at the scene of the incident in the city's South Side. "The offenders' actions, make no mistake, are horrific and unnaceptable in our city."
Witnesses say that the incident began when a black sedan pulled up outside a family gathering shortly after 9 p.m. Multiple shots were fired from the vehicle into a crowd of people before the suspects fled the scene, WFLD reported.
Seven adults, between the ages of 19 and 40, were also wounded by gunfire. Law enforcement provided emergency medical aid on the scene before the victims were transported to nearby hospitals, the Associated Press reported.
"This was not a random act of violence. It was likely gang related," Jerome said.
Other witnesses reportedly saw at least two possible suspects flee the scene on foot. Law enforcement officer found 18 bullets littering the crime scene, according to WFLD.
The investigation is still in preliminary stages and the police have not named any people of interest.
