Police: Possible that slain boy, 9, was targeted

CHICAGO, IL -- An $11,000 reward is being offered for information leading to an arrest in the shooting death of a 9-year-old boy on Chicago's South Side.

Tyshawn Lee was shot and killed near his grandmother's home in an alley in the 8000-block of South Damen Avenue in the city's Gresham neighborhood around 4:15 p.m. Monday.

Tyshawn loved to play basketball. Family members said he brought his basketball everywhere he went. It was found near his body Monday afternoon.

Police said an unknown number of people were gathered in the alley when an argument led to gunfire. Tyshawn was shot several times in the upper body, including in the head and back. He was pronounced dead at the scene.

It's unclear whether Tyshawn was targeted or caught in the crossfire. Neighbors said they are fed up with violence taking the lives of children so young.

"It's terrible. I feel so bad. This baby could have done no wrong. A 9-year-old kid. What could he have done wrong? It's nothing a 9-year-old could do to deserve this," said Raynetta Tyler, who lives nearby.

Police are looking for surveillance cameras in the area and talking to residents to find any witnesses.

Anyone with information is asked to call Chicago police at 312-747-8271.

Tyshawn's mother set up a Go Fund Me page to raise money to pay for her son's funeral. To make a donation, visit www.gofundme.com.