Chicago, IL – Police launched a manhunt at Navy Pier after a former subcontractor employee, described as “disgruntled,” allegedly shot and killed two individuals Tuesday afternoon. The violent incident sent visitors into a panic, seeking refuge in bathrooms and cars at one of Illinois’ most visited tourist sites.
Authorities, who refrained from naming the suspect, stated late Tuesday that they are closely pursuing leads on the individual, believed to be quickly apprehendable. The suspect was terminated from his job on October 14, sparking concerns about his motives for the shooting, which officials labeled as “targeted.” This designation suggested an isolated threat, assuring the public of no broader danger.
The chaos began around 1:30 p.m. at the pier’s loading dock. Emergency responders found two men critically injured; they were immediately rushed to Northwestern Memorial Hospital. A search ensued with heavy police presence, including tactical units and officers equipped with automatic weapons securing the perimeter and searching vehicle-by-vehicle.
Navy Pier, renowned for its vibrant mix of dining, cultural experiences, and the iconic Ferris Wheel, became a scene of distress. With the pier swiftly placed on lockdown, no one was allowed entry or exit for several hours, transforming the bustling hub into a ghost town.
Inside Navy Pier, the tense atmosphere led some employees to shelter in their vehicles, while others secured themselves in facilities near event spaces. For those like Stephanie Knowles, an employee at the souvenir shop Oh Yes! Chicago, the incident was an unnerving ordeal, reminiscent of scenarios she had only seen in news reports about school shootings. Employees banded together in the darkened back rooms of shops until an all-clear was issued.
Incidentally, Benjamin Scott from Logan Square found his routine visit to the pier alarmingly cut short when he was mistakenly surrounded by police due to a clothing resemblance to the suspected shooter. After proving his identity, he described his release from the tense situation as “really scary.”
On the visitor front, Jacoyah Harrison, celebrating her birthday at the pier with her mother, recounted their abrupt evacuation from the Flyover show, interrupted by the sight of officers armed, contributing to the day’s shocking experiences.
Tourists such as Jessica Foster from Kansas City found themselves unwittingly close to danger. Foster was capturing photos near the scene, oblivious to the unfolding events until advised urgently by police to vacate the area.
As Navy Pier recovers from the day’s turmoil, the focus turns to apprehending the assailant and understanding the full context of this violent outburst in a place celebrated for its communal joy and entertainment. The incident not only disrupted lives but also imprinted a stark reminder of the potential for violence that can erupt even in settings designed for leisure and escape.