At least seven killed in Chicago shootings as Trump renews call for military intervention
Multiple shootings over the weekend in Chicago left at least seven dead and dozens wounded. Donald Trump again urged deploying the military, criticizing Illinois Governor JB Pritzker for not requesting federal help.
Shootings in Chicago
Chicago police reported at least seven fatalities and dozens of injuries from multiple shootings since Friday. On Friday evening, an SUV pulled up and two people opened fire on a crowd, wounding 12 individuals aged 17 to 47. They were taken to four hospitals. Among the dead are three men (33, 34, and 21 years old), with most victims not yet identified.
Trump's call
Donald Trump posted on Truth Social questioning why Governor JB Pritzker hasn't sought military assistance, claiming he could make Chicago safe in one month. He cited Washington DC as an example where crime dropped after National Guard deployment.
Pritzker's rejection
Governor Pritzker has repeatedly refused Trump's proposal to federalize Illinois National Guard members and sued last year to block such deployment. A spokesperson for Pritzker did not comment.
A Niskanen Center study found that the National Guard's presence in DC had minimal effect on violent crime.
Crime trends
Chicago police data show a slight increase in shooting incidents compared to the first half of last year, but overall violent crime has declined in recent years, matching national trends.
Juneteenth and Obama Center
The mass shooting occurred on Juneteenth, a holiday marking the end of slavery. Mayor Brandon Johnson condemned the violence, saying it shattered a night of celebration.
Earlier Friday, Barack and Michelle Obama opened their presidential center on the South Side. The star-studded event featured performances by John Legend, Jennifer Hudson, Bruce Springsteen, and was attended by Joe Biden and George W. Bush. Trump was not invited, but Obama Foundation CEO Valerie Jarrett said he would be welcome for a tour.
