9-Year-Old Girl Fatally Shot in Chicago’s Portage Park Neighborhood

In a heartbreaking incident that has shaken the community, a 9-year-old girl, Sarabi Medina, lost her life on a peaceful Saturday evening in Chicago’s Portage Park neighborhood. The innocent girl had just purchased a delightful ice cream treat from the neighborhood ice cream truck and was joyfully scooting her way back home when tragedy struck.

According to the Chicago Police Department, the alleged shooter responsible for the senseless act has been identified as Michael Goodman, a 43-year-old man. It is reported that Goodman, apparently aggravated by the neighborhood’s noise, approached a group of individuals around 9:40 p.m. His anger quickly escalated, and without hesitation, he callously fired a bullet that pierced Sarabi’s head.

The young girl’s life was tragically cut short, leaving the entire community grief-stricken. Sarabi was rushed to Stroger Hospital in critical condition, but her battle for survival proved futile, and she was pronounced dead shortly thereafter.

Sarabi’s father, driven by his love and desperation to protect his child, valiantly confronted Goodman in a fierce struggle. During the confrontation, shots were exchanged, leaving Goodman critically injured. He was promptly transported to a nearby hospital for medical attention.

Local community activist Andrew Holmes, who met with Sarabi’s father, described the courageous intervention, stating that he “ran over there, football-tackled [Goodman].” This act of bravery serves as a testament to the resilience and determination exhibited by the grieving father, who put his own safety at risk to defend his precious daughter.

The authorities swiftly arrived at the scene and successfully recovered a weapon, providing critical evidence for their ongoing investigation into this disturbing incident. Goodman, now in custody, is expected to appear in court on Tuesday to face charges of first-degree murder.

Neighbors, such as Megan Kelley, spoke out about the tragic event, sharing their disbelief over Goodman’s irrational reaction to the innocent noises of childhood laughter and play. Kelley, quoted in the Chicago Sun-Times, expressed the sentiment felt by many, 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.”

The devastated community not only mourns the loss of Sarabi but also remembers the tragic loss of her mother, who suffered a fatal shooting in 2018. Sarabi’s family and friends are left grappling with the unfathomable tragedy that has taken yet another vibrant life from their midst.

Sarabi was eagerly awaiting the start of fourth grade at Reinberg Elementary School this fall, but her promising future has been extinguished, leaving an empty space in the hearts of her teachers and classmates.

The Chicago Public Schools’ statement reflects the collective grief and shock experienced by the entire educational community, as they mourn the loss of yet another young life. “With great sadness, we are devastated at the loss of another young life. The thoughts and condolences of the entire Chicago Public Schools (CPS) family are with all those impacted by this tragedy,” the statement read.

The untimely death of Sarabi Medina serves as a somber reminder of the relentless violence that plagues our cities, claiming innocent lives without reason or justification. The community now cherishes the memories of a young girl who was full of life and promise, reminding us all of the fragility and preciousness of every moment.

Let us unite in grief, support, and unwavering determination to create safer neighborhoods, where children can laugh and play without fear, and where families can find solace in knowing their loved ones are protected from such senseless acts of violence.