Mass Shooting Outside River North Club Leaves 4 Dead, 14 Injured Following Rapper Mello Buckzz’s Album Release Party

A tragic mass shooting outside a popular nightclub in Chicago’s bustling River North neighborhood has left four people dead and at least 14 others injured, authorities confirmed. The deadly drive-by occurred around 11 p.m. Wednesday outside Artis Lounge, located on the 300 block of West Chicago Avenue.

The incident unfolded shortly after an album release party for local rapper Mello Buckzz, drawing a large crowd to the venue. According to the Chicago Police Department, a dark-colored vehicle drove past the club as people were gathered outside. At least one individual inside the car opened fire into the crowd before the vehicle fled the scene.

Authorities say multiple victims—ranging in age from their 20s to 30s—were struck by gunfire. All were rushed to nearby hospitals.

Among the four people killed were:

• A 24-year-old man shot in the chest
• A 25-year-old man shot in the head
• Two adult women who suffered gunshot wounds to the chest

Sources told NBC Chicago that Mello Buckzz’s boyfriend and best friend were among those killed in the attack.

Three other victims remain in critical condition, including:

• A 21-year-old woman shot in the mouth
• A 24-year-old woman shot in the leg
• A 24-year-old woman shot in the back

Two individuals are listed in fair and serious condition:

• A 32-year-old woman shot in the thigh
• A 31-year-old woman shot multiple times throughout her body

Eight additional victims are reportedly in good condition:

• A 29-year-old woman shot in the shin
• A 29-year-old man shot in the thigh
• A 31-year-old woman shot in the knee
• A 25-year-old man shot in the hand and thigh
• A 25-year-old woman shot in the thigh
• A 30-year-old woman shot in the hand
• A 29-year-old man shot in the forearm
• A 27-year-old woman shot in the foot

Photos and video from the chaotic scene showed a heavy police and emergency response, with flashing lights, blocked streets, and paramedics working urgently to treat and transport victims. Outside the club, debris, clothing, and a red carpet from the event lay strewn across the sidewalk and street. An event poster was also seen among the remnants.

Outside nearby hospitals, emotional family members and friends waited anxiously for updates on their loved ones.

As of Thursday morning, no arrests had been made. Detectives continue to investigate, and police are asking anyone with information to come forward.

Notably, the current venue—Artis Lounge—occupies the former site of Hush Chicago, a nightclub shut down in 2022 after a previous shooting. At that time, police labeled the venue a “public safety threat.”

City officials and community leaders are expected to hold a press conference later today.