US: 4 dead in shooting at Chicago train station

CHICAGO: At least four people lost their lives during a shooting in a train station in early hours of Monday in a village called Forest Park, III, almost 16 kilometres (km) west of the city of Chicago, Illinois, United States (US).

According to the local media, three people perished on the spot, while the fourth passed away in the hospital.

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According to reports, passengers were indiscriminately fired at as the train approached a station around 5:30 am local time.

The shooter later attempted to flee the crime scene but was apprehended by the law enforcement authorities. The alleged culprit was captured with help of security cameras.

Authorities have not shared the identities of the victims, including their name, age or gender.

The village’s mayor addressed the media, stating that shootings in their regions were rare. “We never really have mass shootings like this that end in Forest Park”.

As of now, the motive of the shooting is not clear.

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Gun violence and mass shootings have increased in the United States, claiming hundreds of lives each year. The Gun Violence Archive reported that over 30,000 US citizens lost their lives to gun violence this year. This includes mass shootings and even everyday gun-related violence.

As per reports, over 200 people fell victim to mass shootings in the United States in first half of 2024 alone.

Beyond immediate loss of life, gun violence and mass shooting leaves lasting impact on the families of victims and entire communities.

Despite thousands of lives lost in the US each year, the heated debate surrounding gun control legislation has many detractors. Opponents cite the second amendment in the Unite States constitution to argue against controlling the distribution and sale of firearms.

Meanwhile, proponents argue against loss of life as biggest reason to control sale and distribution of guns in the North American country.

More to follow…