Chicago Drive-By Outside River North Club Kills 3, Wounds 16

A drive-by shooting outside Artis Restaurant and Lounge in Chicago’s River North district late Wednesday left at least three people dead and 16 others wounded, according to Chicago police and hospital officials. Some local outlets put the overall casualty count as high as 19, making the attack one of the city’s worst mass shootings this year.

Gunfire erupted at about 11 p.m. as patrons were leaving an album-release party hosted by local rapper Mello Buckzz, witnesses said. Investigators believe several assailants opened fire from a passing vehicle, striking people gathered on the sidewalk along the 300 block of West Chicago Avenue.

The Chicago Fire Department declared a mass-casualty incident, and ambulances rushed victims to Northwestern Memorial Hospital and other trauma centers. Hospital staff said more than a dozen patients were treated for gunshot wounds, with several in critical condition on Thursday morning.

Detectives recovered multiple shell casings at the scene and are reviewing security video from nearby businesses. No arrests have been made, and authorities have not disclosed a possible motive. Chicago Avenue remained closed to traffic during the morning commute while evidence technicians canvassed the area.