Paintball Drive-By Attacks Reported in Old Town and River North
The infamous paintball drive-by attacks have resurfaced in Chicago, with two individuals falling victim to the dangerous and irresponsible act on Sunday night. The incidents occurred in the neighborhoods of Old Town and River North, leaving one victim with a serious eye injury.
According to police reports, a 38-year-old man was walking along the 100 block of West Schiller when a red sedan pulled up next to him around 10:48 p.m. Without warning, someone inside the vehicle fired a paintball gun, hitting the man in the eye. The victim was immediately transported to Northwestern Memorial Hospital for treatment and is said to be in good condition.
Shortly after this incident, another man was targeted near Orleans and Kinzie, reporting being shot in the back with a paintball. Fortunately, his injuries were not as severe as the first victim’s.
Paintball “shootings” have been known to come and go in waves in Chicago, with past incidents causing serious harm to unsuspecting individuals. In 2019, a woman suffered a serious eye injury in a paintball attack on the Northwest Side. The rise in paintball incidents during the pandemic, fueled by viral videos of such attacks, has raised concerns about the safety and well-being of community members.
As authorities work to investigate these recent incidents and apprehend those responsible, it is crucial for residents to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activity to the police. Acts of violence, even if carried out with paintball guns, have serious consequences and can result in life-altering injuries.
It is important for individuals to exercise caution when out in public and to be aware of their surroundings at all times. Stay informed, stay safe, and together we can work towards a safer and more peaceful community for all.
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