CHICAGO — The early hours of Independence Day were shattered by the sounds of gunfire in the 7100 block of South Woodlawn Avenue, leaving a family devastated and a community in mourning. Nakeeshia Strong, 46, and her niece, Caprice Edwards, 24, were killed in a brutal shooting that also critically injured three young boys, aged 5, 7, and 8. Frank Mixon, Nakeeshia’s son, was jolted awake by the gunfire, only to witness the aftermath of the horrific scene.
Frank Mixon described the scene as a massacre, struggling to process the loss of his mother and cousin. Hours after the incident, he reflected on the last moments he shared with his mother, whom he described as an “amazing woman.” They had been discussing his potential transfer to another school on a basketball scholarship, a conversation filled with hope and future plans now cruelly cut short.
According to police reports, the shooting occurred at approximately 6:15 a.m. when two vehicles arrived at the residence, and multiple assailants exited and began firing. Family members revealed that Caprice Edwards died while bravely shielding her 1-year-old child from the gunfire, a testament to her selfless and protective nature.
The three injured boys were immediately transported to Comer Children’s Hospital. Tragically, the 8-year-old boy, the son of Nakeeshia Strong, succumbed to his injuries at the hospital. The other two children, who are Caprice Edwards’ sons, remain in critical condition, fighting for their lives.
Witnesses reported seeing several men in ski masks approaching the home. One neighbor initially mistook the sounds for fireworks, only to realize the gravity of the situation when they saw men jumping off the porch and multiple bullet holes in the home’s front window. The police recovered casings from both a rifle and a handgun at the scene, indicating the scale and brutality of the attack. Deputy Chief Don Jerome stated that the incident appeared to stem from a personal dispute, although the exact motive remains unclear.
The violence that claimed the lives of Nakeeshia Strong and Caprice Edwards has left the community reeling. Alderman Desmon Yancy of the 5th Ward condemned the act as senseless, highlighting the lethal combination of personal conflict and firearms. He emphasized the urgent need to address the underlying causes of such violence to prevent future tragedies.
Mayor Brandon Johnson expressed his condolences in an evening statement, pledging to collaborate with police, community leaders, and victim support services to help the community heal. As the police investigation continues, there have been no arrests, and the authorities are appealing to the public for any information that could lead to the apprehension of the perpetrators.
In response to the tragedy, community activist Rabbi Michael Ben Yosef has offered a $2,000 reward for information that leads to the arrest and conviction of the shooters. Tips can be submitted anonymously at CPDtip.com, as the community comes together to seek justice and support the grieving family.
Nakeeshia Strong was known for her unwavering dedication to her family. A mother of resilience and strength, she worked tirelessly to provide for her children and create a loving home environment. Her loss leaves a significant void in the lives of her surviving children and all who knew her. Caprice Edwards, remembered for her vibrant spirit and protective nature, had dreams and aspirations that were tragically cut short. Her final act of shielding her child from harm speaks volumes about her character and the love she had for her family.
The tragedy has sparked conversations about the pervasive issue of gun violence in Chicago and the need for comprehensive strategies to address it. Community leaders are calling for more resources to be allocated towards violence prevention programs, mental health services, and initiatives that foster community cohesion and support for at-risk individuals.
As the family prepares to lay Nakeeshia Strong and Caprice Edwards to rest, they are surrounded by a community that shares their grief and stands in solidarity with them. The outpouring of support, both emotional and financial, has been overwhelming, with many contributing to funds established to assist with funeral expenses and support the surviving children.
A viewing for Nakeeshia Strong and Caprice Edwards will be held on Saturday, July 6th, from 6:00 to 10:00 PM at Riotto Funeral Home, 3205 JFK Blvd., Jersey City, NJ 07306. The family requests that in lieu of flowers, donations be made to organizations that work towards preventing gun violence and supporting affected families.
As the investigation continues, the community remains hopeful that justice will be served, and the perpetrators of this heinous crime will be brought to account. The memories of Nakeeshia Strong and Caprice Edwards will live on in the hearts of their loved ones, a poignant reminder of the fragility of life and the devastating impact of violence.
In the wake of this tragedy, the community is reminded of the importance of coming together to support one another, advocate for change, and work towards a safer future for all. The legacy of Nakeeshia Strong and Caprice Edwards will be one of love, courage, and a call to action to end the cycle of violence that has claimed far too many lives.
