Two separate mass shootings unfolded within 12 minutes of each other late Saturday night, leaving three people dead and 23 others wounded in Trenton, New Jersey, and Chicago. Police in both cities are searching for suspects as investigators work to determine what sparked the deadly violence that tore through both communities in rapid succession.

Chicago Gunmen Open Fire Into Crowd

The first shooting erupted at approximately 11:37 p.m. Saturday on Chicago’s South Side when gunmen opened fire into a large gathering that police were breaking up. Fifteen people were struck by gunfire, including a 35-year-old man who died after being shot multiple times. The remaining 14 victims, ranging in age from 21 to 47, were transported to local hospitals with varying injuries.

The incident marks the largest single shooting in Chicago this year, surpassing a June drive-by attack that wounded 14 people in another South Side neighborhood. Among the wounded was a 26-year-old woman who sustained multiple chest wounds but was listed in good condition. Police have not released descriptions of the shooters or identified what the gathering was for. Cook County Crime Stoppers is offering up to $10,000 for information leading to an arrest.

Trenton Shooting Leaves Two Dead

Just 12 minutes after the Chicago violence, gunfire erupted in Trenton near 194 Locust Street at approximately 12:25 a.m. Sunday. First responders discovered 11 people shot at the scene. Two victims were pronounced dead, while nine others were rushed to Capital Health Regional Medical Center. Police have not disclosed the victims’ conditions or announced any arrests.

Trenton Mayor W. Reed Gusciora revealed that one of the deceased had been working to rebuild his life after prison. The victim had recently been recognized for his commitment to reentry programs and positive change before his life was cut short. New Jersey Governor Mikie Sherrill confirmed she had been briefed on the shooting and that her Attorney General was coordinating with local law enforcement.

Officials Vow Action

Chicago Mayor Brandon Johnson condemned the violence and promised to address the flow of illegal firearms into the community. He emphasized his administration’s commitment to breaking cycles of trauma through violence prevention resources and victim support services. Both cities continue investigating the shootings, with no suspects identified in either case. Authorities have not released any connection between the two incidents, which occurred hundreds of miles apart within minutes of each other.