Vice Lord Killed Saturday Night While Political Rally to Stop Violence Under Tent: Updated11:00pm

As Evanston Alderman Ann Rainey addressed Chicago and Evanston residents at her rally against crime at 7:00 p.m., a reputed gang hit took place blocks away. Last reports indicate that the two suspects were seen fleeing south on Seeley near Birchwood.

The victim, Willie Bloomingburg, 26, was the brother of Allen, a convicted member of the Traveling Vice Lords. Willie, who lived on the 2000 Block of West Arthur, was found in front of 2045 W. Birchwood (between Seeeley and Hoyne). Emerging reports from Police indicate that the Willie tried to flee after he was shot at close range between three to six times. Police sources claim that he was attacked at 7454 N. Hoyne, but neighbors confirm that the shooting took place closer to 2056 W. Birchwood and that the victim may have tried to run west with his injuries towards Hoyne. The victim was taken to St. Francis Hospital, where he died from muliple gunshot wounds.

Evanston Police at the Rally believe that a turf battle is going on between the Black P-Stones, 4 Corner Hustlers, and the Vice Lords. Sources suggest that the Vice Lords are trying to move south, which has spurred the blood shed. Recent, vocal activity last week suggested a level of intentional disrespect. The disrespect appearantly did not go over well with local gangsters. It is unclear whether the victim was related to more vocal 'folks,' but not 'people.' Gang alliances are broken up between folks and people; the Black P-Stones are part of the people alliance.

Numerous buildings between on Hoyne between Jarvis and Birchwood are in the process of significant condominium renovation. Quite a few of the buildings were cleared of tenants to expedite progress. In addition, there is concern about a few absentee landlords and foreclosures down the 2000 Block of West Birchwood. A neighborhood in transition can create economic pressure.

According to one CAPs 2424 co-facilitator, "Hoyne residents have reported seeing groups of young men on their sidewalk. It cannot be said enough: if people are hanging out in front of your home for more than a few minutes call 911." The facilitator continued, "call 911 and ask your neighbors to do so as well. Early response is the best way to avoid situations [from] turning into future problems."

Neighbors were encouraged to meet and walk together with others through the neighborhoods and report questionable conduct. CAPs 2424 sponsors these walks on Fridays and Saturdays from 7:30pm to 9:00 p.m. All who have interest in experiencing, preserving, protecting and seeing the neighborhood are encouraged to take part. It is also a good form of exercise. Evanston residents have also taken part in these walks, as well.

Photos: Right: symbols associated with alliance
Above: 2056 W. Birchwood, Chicago, Illinois
Below: 7454 N. Hoyne, Chicago, Illinois (in orange spray paint is written "CHI TOWN") It is unclear whether the grafitti has been there for a while.