Chicago, IL — At Least 3 Killed, 16 Wounded in Mass Shooting Outside Artis Lounge Nightclub in River North
CHICAGO — A tragic and horrifying mass shooting late Wednesday night in downtown Chicago has left at least three people dead and 16 others injured, according to police and city officials. The deadly incident unfolded outside the Artis Restaurant and Lounge, located in the 300 block of West Chicago Avenue in the city’s River North neighborhood.
The gunfire erupted shortly after midnight on July 3, 2025, as patrons were leaving the venue following an album release party for local rapper Mello Buckzz. Authorities say the shooting appears to have been a drive-by, with multiple shooters firing indiscriminately into a crowd gathered outside the nightclub.
First responders arrived quickly to a scene of chaos and carnage. Victims were found sprawled across sidewalks and parking areas, and police said at least 19 people were shot, including three who were pronounced dead at the scene or shortly after at area hospitals.
Victims Identified, City in Mourning
As of Thursday morning, police have not publicly released the names of those killed, pending notification of family members. Several of the wounded are reported to be in critical condition, and officials warn that the death toll may rise.
Chicago Mayor Brandon Johnson issued a statement early Thursday expressing deep sorrow over the attack and calling for unity and urgent action.
“This is another devastating example of how gun violence continues to terrorize our communities,” Johnson said. “Our hearts break for the victims and their families. We will not rest until those responsible are brought to justice.”
A Location Marred by Violence
This is not the first time the 300 block of West Chicago Avenue has seen mass violence. The same address was the scene of a November 2022 mass shooting, when the venue was known as Hush Lounge. In that incident, a fight broke out after several people were thrown out of the nightclub, leading to gunfire that killed one and injured three others.
The Hush Lounge was shuttered shortly afterward, but the space reopened as Artis Lounge, drawing a similar nightlife crowd. Residents and local leaders have repeatedly voiced concern about the safety issues associated with the location.
“We’ve been warning city officials about the dangers of reopening another nightclub in that same space,” said one longtime River North resident. “It’s unacceptable that nearly three years later, history has repeated itself — only worse.”
Investigation Underway, No Arrests Yet
As of Thursday morning, no arrests have been made in connection to the shooting. Detectives from the Chicago Police Department, along with federal partners from the ATF and FBI, are assisting in the investigation.
Police say the shooting appears to have been targeted, though the motive is still under investigation. Surveillance footage from surrounding businesses is being reviewed, and officers have issued a plea for anyone with information, videos, or photos from the scene to come forward.
“This was a brazen, violent act carried out in a crowded area,” said CPD Superintendent Larry Snelling. “We believe multiple individuals were involved in this drive-by shooting, and we are pursuing all leads to identify and apprehend them.”
Community Calls for Action
The mass shooting has reignited fierce debate over Chicago’s ongoing struggle with gun violence, particularly in nightlife districts. Community leaders, anti-violence advocates, and residents are demanding increased accountability for venue operators, tighter restrictions on large gatherings, and a renewed commitment to curbing illegal firearms.
Reverend Corey Brooks, a well-known South Side pastor and anti-violence advocate, condemned the shooting during a press briefing Thursday morning.
“These are our sons, daughters, friends, and neighbors being gunned down. Night after night. This is not just a policy issue — this is a moral crisis. Chicago cannot afford to look away.”
Meanwhile, many are mourning the lives lost and praying for the recovery of those wounded.
“We should not have to live like this,” said Tina Rodriguez, a local activist who showed up to lay flowers at the scene. “This is not just about Chicago. This is about a national epidemic of gun violence that has taken our children, our friends, and now more of our neighbors.”
Moving Forward
In response to the tragedy, the city has deployed increased police presence in the River North area and is expected to hold an emergency safety meeting with venue owners in the district. Mayor Johnson has promised a full review of licensing and permitting practices related to nightclubs and lounges operating in high-risk areas.
As the investigation continues, grief blankets the city once again. For the families of the victims, for the survivors battling for their lives, and for a community grappling with loss and fear, answers and accountability cannot come soon enough.
Anyone with information is urged to contact Chicago Crime Stoppers or submit tips anonymously online. A reward is being offered for information leading to an arrest.