Mother of Three Killed in Brutal Englewood Attack; Police Seek Information
CHICAGO, IL — A horrific act of violence claimed the life of 36-year-old Antoinette Congo in the early morning hours of September 11, 2025, in Chicago’s Englewood neighborhood.
Police said Congo was discovered in the 6500 block of South Damen Avenue on the South Side. Investigators determined she had been shot multiple times, including a fatal wound to the back of her head. Afterward, her body was set on fire inside a garage, in what detectives believe was an attempt to cover up the crime.
Congo’s killing has shaken the community and devastated her family. She leaves behind three young children, who are now left to grow up without their mother.
Details of the Case
Authorities were called to the scene after reports of a fire inside a garage. When first responders arrived, they made the grim discovery. Police have not announced any arrests or identified a suspect, and the motive remains unclear.
“This was a calculated and cruel act,” one investigator said. “We are asking anyone with information, no matter how small, to come forward. Someone in this community saw or heard something.”
Appeal for Tips
The Chicago Police Department is urging residents who may have seen or heard anything suspicious around the time of the killing to submit tips anonymously through cpdtip.com. Officials emphasized that even minor details — such as unusual activity in the area, vehicles coming or going from the alley, or the sound of gunfire — could be crucial in solving this case.
The public is being encouraged to share information under the hashtag #HelpSolveThisCrime to keep Congo’s case in the spotlight.
Community Impact
The Englewood neighborhood has long struggled with gun violence, but this killing has been described by many as especially brutal. Community leaders and neighbors have expressed outrage and sorrow, calling for justice for Congo and safety for her surviving children.
“Antoinette was a daughter, a mother, and a friend,” one family acquaintance said. “She didn’t deserve this. Those kids didn’t deserve to lose their mother this way.”
Local outreach groups are expected to step in to support Congo’s children and family in the coming days, while community activists are organizing a vigil to honor her life and demand answers.
Ongoing Investigation
Detectives from the Chicago Police Department’s homicide unit are leading the investigation. No further details have been released, but officials stressed the importance of community cooperation in helping to solve Congo’s murder.
Anyone with information can submit an anonymous tip at cpdtip.com.
