Double Shooting in Rogers Park Linked to Hookah Lounge Altercation
Over the weekend, a double shooting in Rogers Park was reported to have followed an argument between patrons of a hookah lounge, according to the local alderman. This incident has prompted city officials to consider enforcement action against the business in question. This is not the first time that violence has been associated with this establishment, as a fatal shooting occurred outside the same hookah lounge almost two years ago.
In the early hours of Sunday, police officers patrolling the area received reports of a large altercation in the 1200 block of West Devon. Shortly after, gunshots were heard in the vicinity. Upon arrival at the scene, officers discovered two victims of the shooting—a 31-year-old man with a gunshot wound to the abdomen and a 29-year-old man with injuries to his torso and hip. Both individuals were transported to St. Francis Hospital in Evanston for treatment.
Ald. Leni Manaa-Hoppenworth (48th) revealed that the altercation leading up to the shooting involved patrons of Samah Hookah Lounge located at 1219 West Devon. This is not the first instance of violence associated with the establishment, as a fatal shooting took place outside the lounge in July 2023, resulting in the death of a 30-year-old man and injuries to a woman.
Following the 2023 shooting, a Nuisance Abatement Plan was implemented with the cooperation of the lounge, CPD, and Business Affairs and Consumer Protection. This plan outlines specific actions to enhance public safety and reduce harm in accordance with city ordinances. Ongoing inspections and enforcement have been carried out since then.
Ald. Manaa-Hoppenworth stated that she is actively assessing all available enforcement options in collaboration with CPD and BACP. If deemed necessary under the law, the establishment may face summary closure.
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