Shootings may have stemmed from ‘several ongoing disputes’, police say

By Bob Seidenberg

rseiden914@gmail.com

Evanston Police are beefing up patrols, particularly in the 1700 block of Dempster St., in the wake of three shooting events that have occurred in the area since Aug. 5, the Department said in release today. Although the incidents occurred close in time and location, investigators initial investigation indicates the incidents are not directly related, the department release said.

Four residents have received gunshot wounds in the incidents, non life-threatening.

Here’s the department summary of incidents thus far, with the Department’s commentary:

Incident 1:

• Date/Time: August 5, 8:30 p.m.
• Location: 1700 block of Dempster
• Details: Officers responded to a call reporting two male subjects who had been shot. Upon arrival, officers located two victims, a 41-year-old male and a 50-year-old male, both residents of Evanston. They were transported to the hospital by the Evanston Fire Department (EFD), where they remain in stable condition. No charges have been filed, and the investigation is ongoing.

Incident 2:

• Date/Time: August 6, 3:00 p.m.
• Location: Area of Dempster and Darrow
• Details: Officers responded to a call of a male victim who had been shot. Upon arrival, they found a 34-year-old Evanston resident with a single gunshot wound. The victim was transported to the hospital by EFD in stable condition. The offender fled the scene on foot.

Incident 3:

• Date/Time: August 6, 3:30 p.m.
• Location: 1700 block of Dodge
• Details: Officers responded to a call of a male who had been shot in the hand. Upon arrival, officers found a 50-year-old male victim, an Evanston resident, who was transported to the hospital by EFD in stable condition.

Are these incidents related?

Although these incidents occurred close in time and geographic location, the initial investigation indicates they are not directly related.

Has anyone been arrested or charged?

Presently, there has been an arrest made in the August 5 shooting incident, but charges have not yet been filed.

There have been no arrests made or charges filed in the two shootings that took place on August 6.

Is there a known motive?

Detectives are still working to determine the motives, but the investigation indicates that both shootings that took place on Dempster Street might stem from separate ongoing disputes.

At this time, the motive for the Dodge Street shooting is unknown.

Is there a continued threat?

No, but these incidents are extremely concerning. They were not random attacks with random victims. While there is no indication of a continued threat, the Evanston Police Department advises the community to remain vigilant.

What should I do if I see something suspicious?

If you observe suspicious activity, please call the police immediately. For emergencies, dial 911. For non-emergencies, call 847-866-5000.

What if I have information?

If you have information, evidence, or video related to these incidents, please call 847-866-5040 or Text-A-Tip to CRIMES (274637) and start your message with EPDTIP.

What is EPD doing in the wake of these incidents?

The Evanston Police Department will deploy the necessary resources to increase police visibility and enhance safety, particularly in the 1700 block of Dempster Street. EPD is committed to public safety in these neighborhoods and will diligently and thoroughly investigate all three incidents.