HARVEY, Ill. — A tragic and chaotic night in Harvey turned violent Saturday, August 2, 2025, as gunfire erupted at a crowded house party, leaving seven people injured, including a 4-year-old child, and two people dead, including one of the suspected shooters. The violence continued into early Sunday morning with a second fatal shooting believed to be connected to the earlier attack.
What Happened
Police responded around 8:00 p.m. to the 14400 block of Des Plaines Street, following multiple reports of shots fired during a large gathering. According to city officials, two armed suspects entered the party and opened fire into the crowd.
A licensed concealed carry holder (CCL) at the party returned fire, fatally shooting one of the suspects on the scene. The second suspect was wounded in the exchange and later taken into custody after receiving treatment at a nearby hospital.
Seven individuals were injured in the initial shooting. Among them, a 4-year-old boy suffered non-life-threatening injuries. Four others were hospitalized with similar injuries. The conditions of the remaining two victims have not yet been released.
In a second, separate shooting at approximately 4:50 a.m. on Calumet Boulevard, Charles Lipsey, 24, was found dead from multiple gunshot wounds inside a minivan. Authorities are investigating whether this incident was retaliatory and potentially linked to the earlier house party shooting.
Who Are the Victims and Suspects
- Victims: Seven individuals, including a 4-year-old child. All are expected to survive, though some injuries are serious.
- Deceased: One of the armed suspects (unidentified), and Charles Lipsey, 24, who was killed hours later in a separate shooting.
- Suspect in custody: The second shooter, whose identity has not yet been released. He is being treated under police custody.
Authorities have praised the quick action of the CCL-holder, noting it may have prevented an even greater tragedy. However, they emphasize that a full investigation is needed to determine the motive and sequence of events.
Background or Timeline
- 8:00 p.m., August 2: Shots fired at house party on Des Plaines Street.
- CCL-holder intervenes, fatally shooting one suspect; second suspect injured and arrested.
- 7 injured, including a child, transported to hospitals.
- 4:50 a.m., August 3: Charles Lipsey found shot dead in minivan on Calumet Boulevard.
- Police investigate possible retaliatory link between the two incidents.
The second shooting remains under investigation, and law enforcement is working to confirm whether it was a targeted act in response to the house party attack.
Public or Social Media Reaction
The community of Harvey is shaken. Local residents described hearing dozens of gunshots and expressed concern about ongoing violence.
“This is something you would hear if you were at war,” said Willie Hill, 73.
“Bullets fly. They don’t have a name on them,” added Michael Parker, a neighbor across the street.
Social media has lit up with prayers for the victims and calls for unity, while some users demand increased police presence and youth outreach programs in the wake of the violence.
Official Statement or What Happens Next
The Harvey Police Department, supported by multiple law enforcement agencies, is leading the investigation into both shootings. Authorities say the house party shooting appears to be an isolated incident, but the connection to the second shooting is under close review.
Investigators urge anyone with information to contact the Harvey Police Department directly. Witness cooperation is already aiding the case, and more updates are expected as the investigation develops.
This story may be updated with more information as it becomes available.
