Chicago, Illinois – A tragic shooting outside a Little Caesars restaurant in the Little Village neighborhood has left 29-year-old Stevens Jeffrey dead, while two young children who were with him miraculously escaped unharmed. The fatal shooting occurred Thursday evening, shaking the tight-knit community and sparking a full police investigation into what appears to be a targeted attack.

According to authorities, the shooting happened near the 2500 block of South Pulaski Road just after 6:30 p.m. Witnesses reported hearing several gunshots ring out in rapid succession, followed by the sound of screeching tires as the suspect’s vehicle fled the scene. Chicago police and emergency responders arrived within minutes, finding Jeffrey lying near the entrance of the restaurant.

Officers immediately secured the area and rendered aid while paramedics worked to stabilize the victim. Despite their efforts, Jeffrey was later pronounced dead at a nearby hospital. The two children who were with him—both under the age of ten—were physically unharmed but visibly shaken by the violent incident that unfolded before them.

Detectives quickly began canvassing the area for surveillance footage and witnesses. Early reports suggest the shooter may have approached on foot before firing multiple rounds at close range. Shell casings were recovered near the restaurant entrance, and investigators believe the gunman targeted Jeffrey specifically, though the motive remains under investigation.

Little Caesars employees and nearby business owners described the moment of chaos that erupted as customers ran for cover. “It happened so fast,” said one witness. “We heard pops, then everyone started yelling and ducking. It was terrifying—especially seeing the kids there.” Several employees remained inside after the shooting, waiting until police confirmed the area was safe.

The Little Village neighborhood, known for its strong community ties, has been shaken by the killing. Residents gathered outside the taped-off scene late into the night, lighting candles and expressing grief for a life lost too soon. Many voiced frustration over the persistent gun violence plaguing the area and the emotional toll it continues to take on local families.

Police officials confirmed that detectives from the Area Four unit are leading the investigation. They are reviewing footage from nearby security cameras and have asked anyone with information to come forward. At this stage, no arrests have been made, and authorities are working to identify the shooter’s vehicle, which was last seen heading north on Pulaski.

Community leaders are urging calm as they call for justice and unity. A neighborhood pastor who arrived at the scene shortly after the shooting said he hopes this tragedy reignites efforts to combat violence and support young people before conflicts escalate to deadly encounters.

As investigators continue their work, the Little Village community mourns yet another devastating loss. The sight of two young children standing near police tape, spared from harm yet forever changed, serves as a haunting reminder of how deeply violence scars those left behind. The city grieves, and a family faces unimaginable heartbreak.