Mother Mourns Loss of 14-Year-Old Son in Chicago Shooting

Ahmani Hicks shared memories of her 14-year-old son, Marcus Chatman, who was known for his charismatic smile and friendly nature. Marcus, a promising athlete on a Dolton area football team, was known for his generosity and trust in others. “He would give the shirt off his back,” Hicks recalled. His positive spirit was a constant source of joy in their family.

On the night of June 18, Marcus was tragically shot and killed around 11:30 p.m. on the 8000 block of South Carpenter in Chicago’s Auburn Gresham neighborhood, police reported. His mother, who was preparing for his 15th birthday, is now faced with planning a private funeral instead. Marcus was remembered for his playful demeanor, often entertaining his family with his jokes and dance moves. When he called, his family loved to hear him through speakerphone.

Following the tragedy, Marcus’s football team, Midwest Hawks Youth Football, rallied around Hicks’s family, providing groceries and spending time with them during this challenging period. The team shared a social media tribute, lamenting the “heartbreaking loss” and calling the shooting a “senseless act of violence.” They praised Hicks for her years of support not only to her own children but also to many others in the organization.

Hicks eagerly awaits justice, hoping for the apprehension of her son’s shooter. Her younger son, only seven years old, persistently asks her for updates on the case. “Nothing can bring my son back,” Hicks stated, “but knowing those responsible are off the streets would provide some closure.” She is determined to seek justice for her and her other three sons.

The Chicago Police Department informed Hicks that video footage caught Marcus walking out of an apartment with friends, one of whom allegedly shot him twice in the back. The shooter fled down an alley, leaving Marcus.

Hicks described a heartbreaking sequence: other individuals present at the scene ran back into the building instead of aiding Marcus. One friend’s sister called Hicks multiple times that night, informing her of Marcus’s condition. Hicks eventually located him at the University of Chicago Medicine, where medical professionals pronounced him dead on arrival.

Logging into Marcus’s social media, Hicks discovered a group chat among his friends, discussing the shooting. Messages indicated who shot Marcus, and some expressed regret, noting the presence of police at the scene prevented them from helping.

Marcus’s involvement with this group of friends troubled Hicks. She had warned him since witnessing troubling behaviors like rock throwing at their window. Hicks advised other parents to stay vigilant about their children’s social circles and advocated making decisions that protect their children.

“I warned him about those friends,” said Hicks. “He thought they were real friends and ignored my concerns.”

Marcus’s brothers continue to struggle with the loss, hesitant to return to their beloved football practice. Yet, support from the team offers solace. The Hawks frequently check on their well-being, bringing groceries and emotional support.

In a gesture honoring Marcus, Hicks plans a balloon release on June 26, his birthday. His death coincided with a violent holiday weekend that saw multiple casualties in Chicago. In response, faith leaders and activists called on local government to create a Department of Gun Violence Prevention, urging policies that reduce shootings and support affected communities.