Chicago, Ill. — The city of Chicago is grappling with grief following the tragic death of 37-year-old Emerald Pretty, who was fatally shot late Friday night, November 7, 2025.
The heartbreaking incident occurred in the late-night hours on Chicago’s South Side, where officers responded to reports of gunfire near the 7400 block of South Calumet Avenue. Upon arrival, police discovered a man suffering from multiple gunshot wounds. Despite the swift response of first responders and the desperate efforts of medical personnel, he was pronounced dead at the scene. Authorities later identified the victim as Emerald Pretty, a lifelong Chicagoan whose passing has his family, friends, and community devastated.
The Chicago Police Department confirmed that detectives from the Area Two Bureau of Detectives are actively investigating the case. While no arrests have yet been made, investigators are reviewing nearby surveillance footage and interviewing witnesses in an effort to identify the suspect or suspects responsible for the deadly shooting. Officials have not released a possible motive, but they believe Emerald may have been targeted.
As word of his death spread, an overwhelming wave of sorrow and disbelief rippled through the community. Those who knew Emerald describe him as a bright, compassionate, and deeply loving man — a son, brother and friend whose presence could light up a room. He was known for his strength, his sense of humor, and his ability to bring people together, no matter the circumstance.
“Emerald was a beautiful soul,” said one family friend. “He loved his family fiercely and cared about everyone he met. He didn’t deserve this — no one does.”
Loved ones shared that Emerald had been working hard to build a stable future for himself and his loved ones. He was dedicated to her family, often helping care for younger relatives, and had dreams of starting her own small business one day. “She had so many plans,” his cousin shared. “He was finally getting her life where he wanted it to be. And now he’s gone.”
The neighborhood where the shooting took place has long struggled with issues of gun violence, and this tragedy has reignited frustration and heartbreak among residents who continue to call for peace and accountability. Community advocates and clergy have gathered near the site of the shooting, where candles and flowers now line the sidewalk in Emerald’s memory.
Local pastor Rev. Andre Lewis spoke during a vigil Saturday evening, urging unity and compassion in the face of grief. “We’ve lost another precious life — another child of Chicago,” he said. “Emerald’s death is not just his family’s tragedy, it’s a community tragedy. We have to stand together and fight for peace so no more families have to endure this pain.”
Friends and family members are planning a larger memorial later in the week to celebrate Emerald’s life and the light he brought to others. They remember him as a man of resilience and love, someone who always found a reason to smile and lift others up even in hard times.
The Chicago Police Department has asked anyone with information to contact Area Two detectives or submit an anonymous tip through CPD’s tip line or Crime Stoppers. Authorities have assured the family and community that every lead will be pursued in their search for justice.
As the investigation continues, those who knew Emerald are left clinging to his memory — his laughter, his compassion, his ability to make people feel seen and valued. In a city that too often finds itself mourning lives lost too soon, Emerald Pretty’s story stands as yet another painful reminder of the urgent need to end senseless violence.
While her life was cut tragically short, Emerald’s spirit continues to live on in the hearts of those who loved him .To his family, he will always be remembered not for the way he died, but for the way he lived — with courage, grace, and a heart full of love.
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