Crime
Man Killed in Calumet Park Beach Shooting
CHICAGO, IL — A man was fatally shot at Calumet Park Beach on May 15, 2025, in an incident that sparked panic among families and children enjoying a day at the lakefront.
According to police, the man —who has not yet been publicly identified—was struck by gunfire in the vicinity of the beach near Calumet Park, a recreational area located in the city’s East Side neighborhood.
The shooting occurred just over an hour after several families had arrived at the park to enjoy the afternoon.
A witness, who brought her children to the beach after a youth baseball game was canceled due to weather concerns, described the terrifying ordeal.
“We went to Calumet Park so the kids could play at the beach since the game was canceled,” she said. “A few other parents joined us, and everything was going well until shots rang out—so many that it sounded like a machine gun.”
The gunfire reportedly broke out near the playground area while the witness and her group were on the opposite end of the park near the pier.
She described the moment families began scrambling for safety.
“People were running everywhere, grabbing their children and trying to make it to their cars. It was complete chaos. I’m thankful we weren’t closer, but it was horrifying to see.”
The man was pronounced dead at the scene.
No additional injuries were reported, and no arrests have been made as of Thursday evening.
Area detectives are actively investigating, and police are reviewing surveillance footage and gathering witness statements.
The shooting has raised new concerns about safety in public parks ahead of the summer season. Community members are urging city leaders to increase security and visibility in family-oriented spaces to prevent further violence.
Anyone with information is asked to contact Chicago Police or submit tips anonymously to CPD’s tip line at 833-408-0069.
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.