Chicago Community Mourns 36-Year-Old Dennis Durley After Tragic Englewood Shooting
CHICAGO, ILLINOIS | November 8, 2025 — The city of Chicago is once again grappling with heartbreak after the tragic passing of 36-year-old Dennis T. Durley, who lost his life late Friday night in the Englewood neighborhood. The incident unfolded around 10:00 p.m. in the 900 block of West 63rd Parkway, a street that has seen both resilience and pain over the years.
According to the Chicago Police Department, officers responded swiftly after multiple 911 calls reported gunfire in the area. Upon arrival, they discovered Dennis lying unresponsive near the sidewalk, suffering from gunshot wounds to the head and neck. Despite rapid efforts from first responders and paramedics, he was pronounced deceased at the scene. The Cook County Medical Examiner’s Office later confirmed his identity as Dennis T. Durley, a resident of Chicago’s South Side.
Witnesses reported seeing a white sedan flee the scene moments after the gunfire. Preliminary investigations suggest that a man exited the vehicle, approached Dennis, and opened fire before returning to the car and speeding away. Detectives from Area One are currently leading the investigation, gathering surveillance footage from nearby businesses and residences, while canvassing the neighborhood for witnesses who may have seen or heard anything unusual.
Police have not yet released information about a possible motive, but investigators have stated that the attack appears to have been targeted. As of Saturday morning, no arrests have been made, and authorities continue to urge anyone with information to contact detectives or submit tips anonymously to Crime Stoppers.
Dennis Durley’s passing has left a deep void in his family and community. Friends describe him as a quiet, dependable man who worked hard to support his loved ones. Those close to him say he was dedicated to his family, especially his young daughter, who he spoke about often with pride and love.
“Dennis was more than a victim — he was a father, a son, and a friend,” said Marcia Thompson, a longtime neighbor who knew him since childhood. “He had dreams, he had plans, and he cared about the people around him. This kind of loss shakes all of us.”
Durley was known in the community for his warm demeanor and helpful spirit. Neighbors recall seeing him help elderly residents carry groceries, mow lawns, and lend a hand wherever it was needed. Though he lived a modest life, those who knew him say his compassion and calm presence made him a cornerstone of the neighborhood.
“He wasn’t involved in trouble,” said another friend, Anthony Green. “He stayed to himself, worked his job, and loved his little girl. He didn’t deserve this.”
As police comb through evidence, residents of Englewood are calling for unity and justice. The area has long been affected by gun violence, but many say they refuse to let fear define their community. “We’re tired of losing good people,” said Pastor Leonard Wilson, who is organizing a vigil in Dennis’s honor. “We will pray for his family, for peace, and for an end to this cycle.”
The vigil is scheduled to take place Sunday evening at Hamilton Park, just a few blocks from where the incident occurred. Family members, community leaders, and city officials are expected to attend. Candles, flowers, and handwritten notes already line the sidewalk near the site, serving as a poignant reminder of a life taken far too soon.
In a statement, a spokesperson for the Chicago Police Department expressed condolences to the family and reaffirmed the department’s commitment to finding those responsible. “Every act of violence in our city represents not just a statistic, but a human being whose life mattered,” the statement read. “We are committed to delivering justice for Mr. Durley and his loved ones.”
As Chicago mourns the loss of Dennis T. Durley, the community is reminded of the fragility of life and the need for compassion and unity. His memory will live on through those who knew him best — his family, friends, and neighbors who will forever remember his kindness, strength, and the love he shared with those around him.
Though the investigation continues, one thing is certain: Englewood has lost another bright soul, and the people who loved Dennis are determined that his story will not be forgotten.