16-Year-Old Fatally Shot in West Garfield Park, Chicago Grieves Another Young Life Lost
Chicago, IL — October 21, 2025 — Tragedy struck West Garfield Park this afternoon as 16-year-old David Mason Jr. was fatally shot, marking yet another heartbreaking chapter in Chicago’s ongoing struggle with gun violence.
According to the Chicago Police Department, officers responded to reports of gunfire near West End Avenue and Keeler Avenue at approximately 2:30 PM on Tuesday, October 21st. When officers arrived, they were informed by witnesses that the victim had already been rushed to the hospital by a private vehicle.
Shortly after, Mt. Sinai Hospital confirmed a drop-off teen gunshot victim, later identified as David Mason Jr. He had suffered multiple gunshot wounds to the head, chest, and arms, and was tragically pronounced deceased upon arrival.
The news has devastated David’s family, friends, and neighbors, sparking an outpouring of grief across the West Side community and beyond. Known as a bright, respectful, and kind-hearted young man, David’s death has left loved ones shattered and searching for answers.
💔 A Life Cut Short
David Mason Jr. was more than a name on a police report — he was a son, a student, a friend, and a young man full of potential. At just 16, he was navigating the challenges of adolescence with dreams of becoming someone great. Those who knew him described him as quiet but warm, someone who carried himself with humility and respect.
“He wasn’t in the streets like that,” said a family friend. “He stayed to himself, stayed in school, and loved his mom. He didn’t deserve this.”
David was a student at a nearby high school, where teachers and peers are now reeling from the shock of his sudden and violent passing. School officials have confirmed that grief counselors will be made available to students and staff in the coming days.
🕊️ Another Victim of Senseless Violence
The circumstances surrounding the shooting remain under investigation, and police have yet to release detailed information. At this time, no suspects are in custody.
According to CPD, David was reportedly standing near a sidewalk in the area when he was struck by multiple rounds of gunfire. It’s unclear whether the shooter was on foot or in a vehicle. No motive has been disclosed, and authorities have not determined whether David was the intended target.
Detectives are actively canvassing the area for witnesses and surveillance footage. Anyone with information is urged to contact Area Four Detectives or leave an anonymous tip via CPD’s tip hotline or online submission form.
“We are asking the community to come forward,” said a CPD spokesperson. “Someone knows something. This young man’s family deserves answers — and justice.”
🌹 Community in Mourning
News of David’s death spread quickly throughout the neighborhood, with makeshift memorials already forming near the site of the shooting. Candles, flowers, photos, and messages of love and sorrow have been placed along the sidewalk where he was last seen alive.
On social media, hashtags like #JusticeForDavid, #SayHisName, and #StopTheViolence began trending locally, as residents expressed both heartbreak and outrage over yet another life lost far too soon.
Community activists are once again calling for increased youth resources, violence prevention programs, and neighborhood investment, emphasizing the urgent need to protect children and teens growing up in vulnerable environments.
“Chicago’s children are not disposable,” said activist Teresa Ford. “David should be at home doing homework or playing video games, not laying in a morgue. We have to do better.”
🕯️ Remembering David
A candlelight vigil is being planned for later this week, with friends, family, and community members expected to gather at the corner of West End and Keeler to honor David’s life and mourn his passing.
A GoFundMe campaign has also been launched to support funeral expenses and provide assistance to his grieving family.
His mother, too distraught to speak publicly, shared through a family member:
“David was my baby. He wasn’t perfect, but he was good. He was good, and I want people to remember that.”
✝️ A Plea for Peace
David Mason Jr.’s death is a stark reminder of the epidemic of gun violence that continues to plague urban communities across the nation. It is also a plea — from his family, his school, and his city — for peace, accountability, and protection for the next generation.
As we remember David, let us also honor him by working together to ensure that no more children are lost to the streets, and no more mothers have to bury their sons.
🔗 How to Help:
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Tips & Information: Contact Area Four Detectives or call (312) 746-8251. Tips can also be submitted anonymously at cpdtip.com.
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Donations: Visit the official GoFundMe: “Help Lay David Mason Jr. to Rest” to support his family with funeral costs.
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Vigil Info: Details for David’s community vigil will be announced via social media and local neighborhood groups in the coming days.
Rest in eternal peace, David. 🕊️
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