On Saturday, community members gathered at Chicago’s 31st Street Beach to pray for an end to the recent spate of violence in the area.
Faith leaders, local business owners, community members, alderpersons, and patrons of Pier 31, a bar located at the beach, showed their support at the beachside gathering. This came after two deadly shootings occurred there last week.
Nikki Hayes, who has owned Pier 31 for 13 years, told ABC 7 Chicago that business has slowed since the shootings. “When incidents happen so close together, it really impacts you. I keep wondering, ‘What’s going on? What can we do differently?'” she said.
Two people were shot and killed near the beach early last Friday. The Wednesday before, a 22-year-old woman was killed, and another woman was injured in the same area.
Ald. Lamont Robinson (4th) suggested closing the beach at 9 p.m., two hours earlier than usual. There are also plans to have Violence Interrupters at the beach to help prevent further incidents.
Last Sunday (June 23), Robinson announced that Chicago police conducted bag checks and arrested someone for attempting to bring a gun to the area. Moreover, thirty-seven illegally parked cars were towed.
“EVERYONE is welcome to 31st Beach, but there are rules (all varying degrees) that need to be followed, and we WILL be cracking down,” he wrote in a social media post, before thanking CPD and the city’s Department of Streets & Sanitation.
After a man and a woman were found shot to death at the 31st Street Beach parking lot on June 21, the owners of Pier 31 issued the statement below, expressing sympathies for the lives lost:
A MESSAGE TO OUR SUPPORTERS
We are deeply disheartened by the tragic loss of the lives that were taken in the fatal shooting that occurred in the 31st Street Harbor Parking Lot.
Although our establishment had no direct involvement with this incident, as a family-owned business, we understand the importance of keeping your loved ones safe.
It deeply pains us that a narrative is being driven about our business. For the past 13 years, we have been a pillar in the community, providing jobs to youth and creating a safe space for our customers. There has never been a violent incident at Pier 31 Restaurant that has resulted in such a tragedy.
We fully support the Chicago Police Department in their investigation. In light of recent events, we encourage our loyal customers to be patient during these times. We have partnered with the Chicago Park District to alleviate any loitering and unwanted vendors around our premises. At the Alderman’s request, we will remain open until 10 PM. Also, the parking lots have been reopened for our valued customers to utilize.
Our thoughts and prayers are with the families and friends of the victims during this incredibly difficult time.
Sincerely, Your Pier 31 Family
ABC 7 Chicago contributed to this report.
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