Several charged after teen takeover in Chicago's South Loop that led to fatal shooting
CHICAGO (CBS) -- Chicago Police Sunday announced charges in connection to the South Loop gathering that led to a fatal shooting Saturday evening.
Official says they took at least nine teens into custody. Their ages range from 14 to 18 years old. The teens were charged with disorderly conduct, breach of peace, assault, and reckless conduct. One teen died, and another was injured.
One person had been in custody without charges in the shooting, but has since been released.
On Sunday night, a group of violence interrupters was back at the scene near Roosevelt and Canal. The goal was to maintain peace and prevent any repeat of Saturday night.
Rodney Phillips and his crisis prevention and response specialists were on the scene Saturday night when the chaos unfolded. Twenty-four hours later, they were even more vigilant.
"The outlook is to be on point and to be here because we know a lot of the kids suffered some trauma here yesterday," said Philips.
It was just after 8 p.m. when a large group of teens flooded the area Saturday night, wreaking havoc on drivers and nearby small businesses.
"We have security guards here every night, and we locked the doors for a couple of hours and kept everyone out," said Peter Letsos with White Palace Grill.
When the gunfire broke out, 17-year-old Jeremy Smith was shot in the chest and neck, police say. He was transported to Stroger Hospital, where he was pronounced dead. A 15-year-old boy was also shot in the leg. He was listed in fair condition.
It appeared Smith was a Chicago Public Schools student. In a statement, CPS said, "With great sadness, we are devastated at the loss of another young life. The thoughts and condolences of the entire Chicago Public Schools (CPS) family are with all those impacted by this tragedy."
As the crowd of teens spiraled out of control, some antagonized law enforcement. Chicago Police arrested several people.
"Like they say, you could be bored, and then people find themselves in trouble," said Ald. Jason Ervin (28th Ward).
Ervin says providing an alternative outlet is critical moving forward.
"It speaks to the point that we have to provide better resources and safe alternatives for our young people," he said.
The investigation is ongoing.