On Aug. 7, at approximately 11:42 p.m., Evanston Police Detectives who were in the area of Benson Avenue and Church Street in downtown Evanston heard several shots being fired nearby, said Commander James Pickett, office of professional standards of the Evanston Police Department, in a prepared statement. When the detectives went to investigate, they discovered two male juveniles suffering from gunshot wounds at the intersection of Benson Avenue and Davis Street, said the Commander. Apparently there was a verbal confrontation between two unknown groups just prior to the shots being fired, said the Commander.
Both victims were transported to Evanston North Shore Hospital for treatment. Both had surgery and are currently recovering from their injuries, said the Commander. The first victim, 17, was reported in fair condition with a gunshot wound to his lower abdomen area. The second victim, 16, was reported in serious to critical condition with gunshot wounds to his collarbone area as well as his abdomen. He is currently recovering in ICU.
Shortly after the shooting Evanston detectives canvassed the area and interviewed numerous witnesses. Evanston police evidence technicians processed the crime scene. The investigation is currently on-going and at this time there is nothing further to report, said the Commander.