CHICAGO, IL — July 3, 2025 A devastating act of gun violence shattered the night in Chicago’s River North neighborhood on Wednesday, as a mass shooting outside Artis Lounge nightclub claimed the lives of four people and left at least fourteen others injured. The shooting occurred during an album release event for rising local rapper Mello Buckzz, turning what was meant to be a night of celebration into a scene of terror and heartbreak.
Victims Identified
Chicago authorities have identified the four individuals killed in the drive-by shooting as:
- Taylor Walker, affectionately known as “Tay Tay”, a beloved young woman remembered for her vibrant personality, loyalty to her friends, and deep love for Chicago’s music scene.
- Avi Drexler, another young woman with a promising future, described by loved ones as creative, intelligent, and compassionate.
- Vonte (male), a well-known figure in the local nightlife and hip-hop community, whose energy and dedication to uplifting others made a lasting impression on everyone he met.
- Lpeezy (male), a rising artist and friend to many, admired for his authenticity and determination to pursue his dreams through music.
All four had been in attendance to support Mello Buckzz, and were part of a crowd that had just begun to exit the venue when the shooting unfolded.
The Incident
According to the Chicago Police Department, the mass shooting took place around 11:00 p.m. in the 300 block of West Chicago Avenue. A dark-colored SUV reportedly drove past the club, and three individuals inside the vehicle opened fire on the crowd gathered outside.
Witnesses described a terrifying scene as dozens of people scattered, ducked for cover, or tried to assist the wounded. Panic and chaos overtook the moment, with the sound of gunfire echoing through the street, shattering any sense of safety.
Initial reports confirmed the deaths of two men, ages 24 and 25, and two women. The Cook County Medical Examiner’s Office has not yet released the official autopsy findings.
Emergency responders rushed to the scene within minutes. Among the 14 injured, at least eight are currently reported to be in good condition, while others remain hospitalized with varying degrees of injuries. Many of the wounded are said to be young adults, some of whom were attending their very first album release party.
Community in Shock and Mourning
The River North neighborhood, typically bustling with nightlife and creativity, is now cloaked in grief. This tragic event has left a gaping wound in the hearts of families, friends, and fans—not only of Mello Buckzz, but of the vibrant individuals who lost their lives far too soon.
Tributes have begun pouring in across social media, with many calling for justice, peace, and stronger action to curb the violence plaguing the city.
- “Tay Tay was sunshine in human form,” wrote one friend.
- “Avi had so much more to give this world,” shared a classmate.
- “Vonte always looked out for his people. He didn’t deserve this.”
- “Lpeezy had dreams—big ones. He should still be here living them,” said a fellow artist.
Ongoing Investigation
No arrests have been made as of Thursday morning. The Chicago Police Department’s violent crimes unit is actively investigating the case. Authorities are reviewing surveillance footage from surrounding businesses and urging anyone with information to come forward.
“This was a coordinated and cowardly act of violence,” said a CPD spokesperson. “We are committed to finding those responsible and bringing them to justice. These were young people with entire lives ahead of them.”
Officials are asking anyone who may have seen or recorded anything that could aid the investigation to contact the CPD or submit tips anonymously through Crime Stoppers.
A City Demands Change
This mass shooting is yet another painful reminder of the ongoing crisis of gun violence in Chicago and cities across the nation. As vigils are planned and candles are lit in remembrance, the calls for deeper community investment, youth support, and gun reform grow louder.
The lives of Taylor “Tay Tay” Walker, Avi Drexler, Vonte, and Lpeezy must not be reduced to statistics. Each of them had families, passions, futures, and communities that now carry the unbearable weight of their loss.
In the coming days, memorials are expected to be organized throughout the city as Chicago grieves and unites to say goodbye to four lives taken too soon.
If you have any information related to the shooting, please contact the Chicago Police Department or submit an anonymous tip to Crime Stoppers.