Two people were killed in Cicero Monday as unrest and protests over the killing of George Floyd continued for another day.
Four people shot, two shot dead, in Cicero Monday afternoon June 1, 2020 during civil disorder, rioting and protests connected to the killing of George Floyd in Minneapolis, Minnesota on Monday May 25, 2020.
Cicero spokesman and former Daily Herald columnist Ray Hanania confirmed the death of two people, who were shot in Cicero, also telling WGN News that at least 60 people were arrested Monday June 1, 2020.
Hanania said there have been “outside agitators” that have entered Cicero “after being rebuffed by the closure of downtown Chicago. The only shots fired have been by these outside agitators and looters who are not Cicero residents.”
Initially, the identities of the people who were killed was not released, and it was initially unknown whether the shooting victims were Cicero citizens or outsiders.
Hanania told WGN News that more than 100 Cicero police officers were on patrol assisted by about 120 Cook County Sheriff’s deputies and Illinois State Police troopers.
Cardinal News first learned of shooting violence about 4:40 p.m. Monday, June 1, 2020. Looters damaged small businesses, and during the looting two people were hit by gunfire.
“Outside agitators shot at least two people near 50th Street and Cermak Road,” Hanania said. “But police apprehended the three suspects involved in the shooting. These were outside agitators who were driving through Cicero seeking to cause trouble.”
“We have seen employees at several retail stores standing outside their stores holding clubs and other weapons, protecting their businesses. We have urged them to let us do our work and not to put their lives in jeopardy.”
— Ray Hanania
Hanania said officials are “urging the public to be vigilant and to stay in their homes” and avoid large groups. If needed, residents are urged to call 911 and let police handle confrontations.
Armed males wearing face coverings were seen prepared to protect their business — some standing on the roof of a local family-owned Dollar Busters liquor store.
The Cicero Police Department released the following statement on Facebook at 9:18 a.m. Tuesday June 2, 2020:
On behalf of the Cicero Police Department, we appreciate everyone’s support. We are encouraging residents to stay home and allow us to continue to keep everyone safe. We are NOT encouraging anyone to take the law into their own hands. If you see something, say something and we will come. We are receiving assistance from the Illinois State Police, Cook County Sheriff and local departments to assist us.
Please expect multiple road closures again today along Cermak and Cicero Avenue. All crowds will be dispersed.
We made 60 arrests, 2 individuals were killed and we had multiple shootings. You are safer at home.
Stay safe everyone.
A curfew was established for 10 p.m. for children under 16.
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