A 43-year-old man from Chicago has been charged with murder after allegedly shooting and killing his 9-year-old neighbor. The incident occurred in the city’s Portage Park neighborhood on Saturday, and the suspect, Michael Goodman, was swiftly arrested after being identified as the shooter.
According to witnesses, the tragic incident stemmed from an argument over noise. Goodman, apparently upset with the noise created by the children playing, confronted them before fatally shooting the young girl, Serabi Medina, in the head. The community was left in shock, with neighbors expressing disbelief over the senseless act of violence.
Megan Kelle, a neighbor, shared her disbelief, saying, It just didn’t make sense. None of it made sense. Everybody in the community would just tell him they are just kids having fun playing. Just let them be. Kelle added that before shooting the girl, Goodman had made remarks about the noise being too loud.
Following the shooting, a struggle reportedly ensued between Goodman and the girl’s father. The father managed to tackle the suspect, but not before Goodman sustained a gunshot wound. Police discovered a weapon at the scene; however, they have yet to identify its owner.
Serabi Medina was rushed to a nearby hospital in critical condition but tragically succumbed to her injuries. Goodman, who sustained injuries from the struggle, was also transported to a local hospital for treatment. He is expected to appear in court on Tuesday, facing one felony charge of first-degree murder.
The devastating incident has left the community mourning the loss of a young life. Serabi was about to enter fourth grade this fall, and her untimely death has shaken those who knew her. While the investigation continues, the tragedy serves as a grim reminder of the impact that senseless violence can have on innocent lives and communities.
As the shocking events unfold, authorities and community members are left grappling with the why and how of this tragic incident. It is crucial that justice is served, and measures are taken to prevent such senseless acts of violence from occurring in the future. The focus now turns to supporting Serabi Medina’s grieving family and providing the necessary resources to help them navigate this unimaginable loss.
