March to end gun violence takes to West Side streets in honor of slain 7-year-old
CHICAGO — Hundreds of people gathered on the Near West Side with a common purpose — Taking a stand to end gun violence, in memory of 7-year-old Jai’Mani Amir Rivera.
Hug A Child Make A Change founder Saleshea Peterson, alongside Rivera’s family, led the march Friday, and were joined by several other gun violence prevention groups.
A Peace March will be getting underway near Jackson Blvd on the Near West Side in honor of 7 y/o Jai’Mani Amir Rivera. He was shot and killed when he was leaving his home at the Oakley Square Apts. @WGNNews pic.twitter.com/FwynTUv94G
— Andrea Medina (@AndreaMedinaTV) June 21, 2024
Rivera’s mother stood front and center of the procession with pictures of him, while his 10-year-old cousin, Joel, said he still can’t believe he’s gone.
“It was a very shocking experience,” said Joel Rivera. “I’m very hurt and it’s hard to sleep at night.”
Rivera was shot and killed Tuesday by a stray bullet as he walked out of the Oakley Square Apartments where his family lives. Family said he was walking next door to visit his grandmother when he was struck in the chest and later died.
According to the Chicago Police Department, a person of interest is in custody in connection to Rivera’s murder, but it is unclear if charges are pending against this person.
Police also said they don’t believe the seven-year-old boy was the intended target of the shooting, but a motive for the gun violence remains under investigation.
“I like to commend the police for immediately apprehending the person that they think done it,” said Ald. Walter Burnett (27th Ward). “And hopefully justice, justice is done.”
Chicago police plan to announce charges in Rivera’s case at 5:30 p.m. Friday.
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