JUST IN: Chicago Shootings After Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony Leave 8 Injured and One 14 Year Old Dead, Lawmaker Says 300 Juveniles were Rioting in Teen Takover
Chicago Mayor Brandon Johnson addresses shootings that left 8 injured, 1 dead
CHICAGO — Nine people were shot, including one fatality, during what authorities are calling a “teen takeover” in downtown Chicago, where hundreds of juveniles reportedly rioted through the streets after the city’s Christmas tree lighting on Friday night.
In one incident, seven victims—all reportedly teens between 13 and 17—were shot and are currently in stable condition. Less than an hour later, a separate shooting just blocks away left a 14-year-old boy dead and an 18-year-old man injured in the leg, prompting hospital treatment.
The shootings occurred hours after the official Christmas tree ceremony at Millennium Park, which drew thousands of Chicago residents.
Chicago 2nd Ward Alderman Brian Hopkins shared on X that about 300 juveniles were rioting and attacking police near midnight:
“300 juveniles rioting in the Loop now, at least 5 victims shot, one critical with life-threatening gunshot wound to torso. Multiple police officers attacked and injured with mace and stun guns, at least one PO hospitalized.”
Mayor Brandon Johnson addressed the violence during a Saturday morning press conference, describing the gathering as an “unsanctioned after-gathering” that had been advertised on social media. Five guns were reportedly recovered at the scene. Johnson largely placed blame on guns, saying the city has made “positive work” to reduce violence, and criticized the federal government for not doing more.
300 juveniles rioting in the Loop now, at least 5 victims shot, one critical with life threatening gunshot wound to torso. Multiple police officers attacked and injured with mace and stun guns, at least one PO hospitalized.
— Alderman Hopkins (@AldermanHopkins) November 22, 2025
The shootings come amid a legal dispute over federal troop deployment in Chicago. National Guard troops were reportedly preparing to leave after a federal appeals court blocked the Trump Administration’s plan to station them in the city. The Supreme Court is still reviewing President Trump’s appeal.
President Trump responded to the riot, criticizing Illinois Governor JB Pritzker and Mayor Brandon Johnson, while emphasizing their refusal to accept federal assistance:
“Massive crime and rioting in the Chicago Loop area. Multiple Police Officers attacked and badly injured. 300 people rioting, 6 victims shot, one critical and one DEAD. In the meantime, Governor Pritzker and the Low IQ Mayor of Chicago are refusing Federal Government help for a situation that could be quickly remedied. The people are chanting, BRING IN TRUMP!!!”
Elsewhere, gunfire was reported at the Concord, North Carolina Christmas tree lighting, resulting in three teens being charged.
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