CHICAGO – According to a statement provided by Chicago Mayor, Rahm Emmanuel, shootings in Englewood have dropped 43 percent this year. There have been 130 fewer shootings in the community than this time last year. State Senator Mattie Hunter released the following statement:

“Since the summer, it has been my goal to create safe zones for children and families within the Greater Chicago area. I know what it’s like first-hand to lose a family member to gun violence, and my heart aches for families that experience similar trauma.

The best way to keep youth off the streets and out of trouble is to engage them in activities and programs that encourage community involvement and life skills. This will put our youth on the path to success rather than roads to destruction.

While we are moving in a positive direction, it is my hope to strengthen my efforts by building a partnership with the Chicago Police Department to secure safety in and around the community in order to decrease devastating statistics.”