Kevin Watson, a 42-year-old Chicago resident known by the nickname “Tugg,” was fatally shot while livestreaming from his car on Facebook Wednesday evening. The incident occurred around 6 p.m. in a parking lot near the 5000 block of West Madison Street in the South Austin neighborhood—just blocks away from a police station.
Watson, a father of a 7-year-old boy and former podcast host, frequently went live on social media and was known in his community for his upbeat personality and sharp style.
According to police, a person in another vehicle approached Watson’s car and confronted him through the driver’s side window. The livestream, which has now been viewed more than 2.5 million times, captured Watson saying “What’s up, bro?” before exiting his vehicle. Moments later, he was heard saying “Hell no,” followed by multiple gunshots.
Watson was transported to Mt. Sinai Hospital, where he was initially pronounced dead but briefly revived. He later died from significant blood loss. The Cook County Medical Examiner’s Office confirmed the cause of death as a gunshot wound to the chest.
His sister, Shamika Watson, said she had been with him just an hour before the shooting and believes he was targeted by someone he knew. “My brother trusted too many people,” she told NBC News. “He loved to look good, and a lot of people resented him for it.”
Shamika described her brother as her best friend and a devoted father, uncle, and community member. “We just want the killer to be caught. Turn yourself in—we’re not going to stop looking. That’s our brother,” she said.
As of now, no suspects have been identified, and Chicago police say the investigation is ongoing. Authorities have not confirmed a motive, but there is speculation that Watson may have been targeted for his custom “Tugg” necklace.
Watson’s death adds to a troubling trend in the city. From January 1 to June 30, 2025, there have been 192 reported homicides in Chicago.
In response to rising violence in cities like Chicago, former President Donald Trump has floated the idea of deploying the National Guard, similar to his approach during unrest in Washington, D.C.