OAK PARK, Ill. — A shooting in Oak Park early Friday morning resulted in the death of a 54-year-old Army veteran, and a Chicago man has now been charged with first-degree murder in the case, according to local police. The victim, identified as Corey Gates of South Holland, was found with a gunshot wound around 1:23 a.m. in the 600 block of South Boulevard and later pronounced dead at Loyola Medical Center.
Jabari McGee, 20, from Chicago, is the accused. Authorities detained six individuals initially, but by the weekend, five were released without charges. McGee remains in custody awaiting his preliminary court hearing.
The incident reportedly began as an attempted carjacking. Family members told reporters that Gates had just ended his shift as a phlebotomist and was attacked while trying to get into his car after getting off the ‘L’ train. They described a struggle occurring during the attack, emphasizing that Gates fought back vigorously against the assailants. His twin sister, Cathleen Gates, expressed profound grief and shock, having lost her brother to what she described as a senseless act of violence.
“All I had was murdered… and it’s devastating,” Cathleen Gates said in an emotional statement. “It’s going to be devastating that he’s gone. He ain’t here no more because of some bums.” She recalled her last conversation with him, not knowing it would be their final interaction.
Gates, remembered as a dedicated family man and a proud Gulf War veteran, is mourned by loved ones who emphasize his service to the nation and his resilience. “He did what he had to do as a man, and for him to go out this way?” Cathleen Gates lamented.
Police were quick to respond to the scene after the shooting. They soon after detained three juveniles and two adults who matched descriptions and were seen running eastbound on Pleasant Street from Cuyler Avenue. An additional adult male was taken into custody later. Except for McGee, all suspects have since been released.
The ongoing investigation is being assisted by the West Suburban Major Crimes Task Force. The loss of Gates has stirred conversations in the community about the impacts of violence and the importance of justice for victims and their families.
Family and friends of Gates are now calling for justice and accountability, hoping that the legal proceedings will bring some measure of peace and closure to a community shaken by the violent loss of one of its residents. Currently, there are no further details available as the case is under active investigation.