Chicago Honor student Pedro Ramirez killed in morning bus stop shooting
A 17-year-old honor roll student was killed while walking to his school bus stop in Chicago
The victim, Pedro Ramirez, a straight-A junior at Tilden High School, was headed to class on Tuesday, May 26, when he was struck multiple times in the Back of the Yards neighborhood around 7:40 a.m. local time, according to authorities.
Ramirez was rushed to Comer Children’s Hospital but was later pronounced dead from his injuries.
Family members described the devastating loss as unimaginable.
“Our lives changed completely, and this is like a dream,” his mother, Eloisa Garcia, told ABC 7, adding that her son had simply been going to school when the shooting occurred.
Police said an unknown offender exited a dark-colored SUV and opened fire, striking three people in total. Two men, aged 55 and 61, who were sitting inside a vehicle nearby, were also hit in the gunfire.
Authorities confirmed the 61-year-old victim was shot in the back, while the 55-year-old sustained a gunshot wound to the arm. Both were taken to Stroger Hospital in critical condition.
A person of interest has since been taken into custody, according to the Chicago Police Department, though officials have not released further details about a possible motive.
Ramirez was known at Tilden High School for his strong academic record and involvement in sports, including soccer and volleyball, where he served as team captain. Friends and classmates described him as disciplined, committed, and deeply focused on his education.
His best friend, Mario Rosales, told ABC 7 that Ramirez often said he would never miss school unless he was seriously ill.
“He actually died, so it really hurts my heart,” Rosales said, reflecting on the heartbreaking irony of his friend’s words.
A GoFundMe page created to help cover funeral expenses described Ramirez as a bright student with his “whole life ahead of him,” remembered as kind, cheerful, and always willing to help others.
“Pedrito was a kind young man, loved by many, and always willing to lend a hand,” the fundraiser read, noting the overwhelming grief his family is now facing.
