Crime
14-year-old Israel Maldonado killed after being shot to death in South Chicago
A tragic shooting on Chicago’s South Side claimed the life of a 14-year-old boy from Indiana, authorities confirmed.
The incident occurred around 5:53 p.m. in the 8800 block of South Houston Avenue, located in the South Chicago neighborhood, according to the Chicago Police Department.
Shortly after the shooting, the victim was transported to Trinity Hospital by private vehicle.
Medical personnel determined he had sustained multiple gunshot wounds, including injuries to his neck, chest, hand, and back.
Despite efforts to save him, the boy succumbed to his injuries at the hospital.
The Cook County Medical Examiner’s Office identified the victim as Israel Maldonado, a resident of Whiting, Indiana.
As of now, no arrests have been made, and the circumstances surrounding the shooting remain under investigation. Chicago police continue to gather information and are urging anyone with details to come forward.
Christian County, Mo. — Authorities have identified the suspect accused of fatally shooting a deputy with the Christian County Sheriff’s Office during a traffic stop as Richard Bird.
At the time the Blue Alert was issued, the suspect had not yet been taken into custody.
According to law enforcement officials, the deputy initiated a traffic stop involving a 2001 Chevrolet extended cab pickup truck along State Highway 160 near Highlandville.
During the stop, the suspect allegedly opened fire, fatally wounding the deputy before fleeing the scene.
The suspect was reported to have traveled southbound on Highway 160 following the shooting.
Authorities described the suspect vehicle as a black 2001 Chevrolet extended cab pickup truck equipped with a silver brush guard, black body trim, tinted rear windows, and a three-ball trailer hitch. The vehicle was bearing Missouri license plate 9MG-X36.
A statewide Blue Alert was issued to notify the public and assist in locating the suspect.
Law enforcement officials urged residents not to approach the vehicle or suspect if located, but instead to immediately call 911 and provide detailed information while remaining at a safe distance.
Christian County is situated south of Springfield and north of Branson, an area that sees significant travel due to its proximity to the Ozarks.
Multiple agencies across the region coordinated efforts in response to the alert.
Authorities have not yet released further details regarding the circumstances surrounding the shooting or the status of the investigation.
Law enforcement officials expressed their condolences to the deputy’s family, colleagues, and the community as they continue to pursue justice in the case.