Teenager Charged with Attempted Murder After Shooting Incident in West Side Convenience Store
CHICAGO — In a shocking turn of events, a 16-year-old teenager has been charged with attempted first-degree murder and aggravated battery by discharging a firearm after a shooting incident at a West Side convenience store. The victim, a 19-year-old man, was critically injured and is currently recovering in the hospital.
According to Assistant State’s Attorney Michael Rusch, surveillance footage from TNL convenience store captured the teenager, identified as Javeon Gathright, entering the store with five other individuals on the evening of March 8. The group was seen loitering near the bathroom before the victim entered the store to make a purchase.
As the victim approached the checkout counter, members of Gathright’s group donned masks and walked towards him. Gathright then pulled out a gun from a companion’s jacket pocket and fired multiple shots at the victim, striking him in the upper back, right buttock, and right groin.
Despite the victim’s lack of cooperation with authorities, diligent detective work led to the identification of Gathright. A Berwyn police officer recognized him from the surveillance footage and alerted the Chicago Police Department, ultimately leading to his arrest.
Although Gathright has no prior juvenile record, he has been charged as an adult due to the severity of the crimes committed. Judge Deidre Dyer has ordered him to remain in custody pending trial.
This incident serves as a stark reminder of the senseless violence that plagues our communities and the importance of cooperation with law enforcement to bring perpetrators to justice.
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