UPDATE: President Donald Trump declared on social media that Chicagoans are urgently chanting “bring in Trump” following a weekend of violence that left at least eight teens shot, including one fatally. The chaos erupted on December 1, 2023, after a Christmas tree lighting ceremony in the heart of the Chicago Loop, prompting a swift response from law enforcement.
Witnesses report that around 10 p.m., a riot involving approximately 300 juveniles broke out, leading to multiple assaults on police officers and a heightened police presence of 700 additional officers deployed to restore order. Alderman Brian Hopkins described the scene on social media, stating, “300 juveniles rioting in the Loop now, at least 5 victims shot, one critical with life-threatening gunshot wound to torso.”
The chaotic night resulted in one confirmed death—a 14-year-old boy—and left another victim, an 18-year-old man, in serious condition. Trump responded to the escalating violence with a scathing critique of Chicago’s leadership, emphasizing, “Massive crime and rioting in the Chicago Loop area… Multiple police officers attacked and badly injured.”
In a statement, Trump criticized Governor J.B. Pritzker and Mayor Brandon Johnson for rejecting federal assistance to combat the violence, urging them to accept help: “The people are chanting, BRING IN TRUMP!!!”
Mayor Johnson condemned the violence, stating, “Because of the reckless behavior of a few individuals, we have families devastated, and our downtown residents are hesitant to leave their own homes.” He acknowledged the joy of the earlier ceremony, only to see it marred by the outbreak of violence.
Witnesses expressed deep concern. Linda Dixon, a tourist visiting from Indiana, remarked, “It is very disheartening to see this… holiday time, everybody wants to celebrate and enjoy the evening—and something like this happens.”
The unrest in Chicago follows a string of violent incidents, including a recent attack where a 26-year-old woman, identified as Bethany MaGee, was set on fire by a man with a history of crime. The ongoing violence illustrates a significant public safety crisis in the city.
As tensions rise, many are looking for immediate solutions. Trump’s past actions in Washington, D.C., where he deployed the National Guard, are frequently referenced by supporters who argue that similar measures could stabilize Chicago.
With the city facing a critical moment, all eyes are on local leaders. Will they respond to the urgent calls for help? The situation is developing rapidly, and the community awaits decisive action to restore safety.
Stay tuned for updates as this story unfolds.
