CHICAGO — A disagreement over the price of a $3 ice cream led to a paleta vendor being shot and a SWAT team called in by the Chicago Police Department. Charges have now been filed against the suspect.
What Happened
67-year-old Jose Luis was selling ice cream as usual when a man asked him how much it cost. “One of the suspects asked me how much the ice cream was and I told him it was three dollars,” Luis told ABC7. Moments later, Luis remembered he had a cheaper option and tried to offer it to the man. However, the situation quickly turned dangerous.
“I realized he didn’t want to buy any ice cream,” Luis said. “What he wanted to do is rob me.” One of the men then pulled out a gun and shot Luis in the leg. The incident happened around 7:37 p.m. last Wednesday in the 10800 block of South Ewing.
The Arrest
Witnesses helped police find the alleged gunman, 29-year-old Paul Redd, nearby. When officers found Redd, he was inside a house, taking off his clothes. He was standing in his boxer shorts, talking to the police but refusing to come outside. The police then called in a SWAT team, which resolved the situation about an hour later.
Also Read:
- Man Shot Amid South Austin Robbery, Chicago Police Report
- Police Report: Body Pulled from Lake Michigan’s ‘Playpen’ in Chicago
Community Reaction
The local community has been shocked by the incident. Many people see street vendors like Jose Luis as an important part of the neighborhood and are upset by the violence he faced.
This incident highlights the dangers street vendors face and the need for better protection. The community has rallied around Jose Luis, showing their support during his recovery.
