Teen, Uber driver shot and killed in East Garfield Park attack
Teen identified in Chicago's West Side shooting
The search is on for a suspect in a fatal shooting on Chicago's west side yesterday. Two people are dead and tonight we're learning more about one of the victims.
CHICAGO - The search is on for a suspect in a deadly shooting on Chicago’s West Side that left two people dead.
What we know:
Friends have identified one of the victims as 18-year-old Damarion Johnson.
They say Johnson had just finished basketball practice Thursday evening and got into an Uber around 8:30 p.m., heading home.
But near the intersection of Homan Avenue and Lake Street in East Garfield Park, police say the ride was interrupted when a gray SUV pulled up and someone inside opened fire.
Both Johnson and the Uber driver, 38-year-old Jassen Cho, were shot. They were taken to nearby hospitals, where they were later pronounced dead.
What they're saying:
Johnson was a member of Project Swish, a basketball and mentorship program. Those who knew him say he brought energy and humor everywhere he went.
"He was the funniest kid in the program. So silly and funny, a big lady's man, super competitive when it came to the basketball floor. Overall, a great kid. It was a huge shock. We never expected this. It’s a tough loss for us for sure," Mckinley Nelson, founder of Project Swish, said.
Project Swish says it is now focused on supporting Johnson’s friends and teammates as they grieve.
An Uber spokesperson said:
"There are no words to describe this tragic loss of life, and our thoughts are with the victims’ loved ones during this difficult time. We’re doing everything we can to support police during their investigation, and we hope those responsible are brought to swift justice."
What's next:
Police say no arrests have been made, and the investigation is ongoing.
The Source: The information in this report came from the Chicago Police Department.