A tragic mass shooting has shaken the Chicago music scene after a violent incident erupted during rising rapper Mello Buckzz’s album release party for Hollyhood on Wednesday night, July 2, 2025.
The shooting occurred outside Artis Lounge, where fans had gathered to celebrate the release of the rapper’s new project. According to authorities, an SUV pulled up and opened fire on the crowd, killing four people and injuring 14 others. Of the injured, at least four remain in critical to serious condition. Victims range in age from 21 to 32 years old.
Mello Buckzz Reacts in Grief
In a heartbreaking statement posted to her social media on Thursday morning, the Chicago-born artist mourned the loss of her boyfriend and three close friends, who were among the fatalities.
“Prayers up for all my sisters, God please wrap yo arms around every last one of them. We need u. I need u. Ngl I’m f*cked up. Feel like everything just weighing down on me. All I can do is talk to God and pray,” she wrote.
The rapper, best known for her single “Move”, was visibly shaken and emotionally devastated by the tragic turn of events, which transformed a celebratory night into a nightmare.
Eyewitnesses Describe the Chaos
Pastor Donovan Price, who was present at the scene shortly after the gunfire erupted, described the panic and despair that followed.
“The worst I’ve seen. People were trying to find their loved ones, their phones, car keys. It was total chaos,” he said. “Chicago has seen shootings, but this was unlike anything else.”
This marks the second time a mass shooting has occurred at the venue. In 2022, when it operated under the name Hush Nightclub, a separate shooting incident left one dead and three injured. Following that event, the venue was temporarily shut down by authorities.
Police Investigation Ongoing
As of the time of this report, Chicago police have not made any arrests, but they have confirmed they are searching for three suspects believed to be connected to the shooting.
Authorities are urging anyone with information or footage related to the incident to come forward.
