Teen Shot Outside South Loop Jewel-Osco Identified as Missing Homeless Girl from Minnesota

By Ronald Rodriguez Last updated Sep 26, 2025

Chicago, IL – A tragic incident unfolded late Tuesday night in Chicago’s South Loop neighborhood when a 17-year-old girl was shot during a fight outside a Jewel-Osco store on the 1200 block of South Wabash Avenue. Authorities have now identified the victim as a homeless teen who had been missing from Minnesota since January of this year.

The shooting has cast a spotlight on concerns regarding safety, security measures in retail spaces, and the vulnerability of homeless youth.

The Incident Outside Jewel-Osco

According to eyewitnesses and video footage shared by CBS News Chicago viewer Josiah Henderson, the victim was seen being wheeled into an ambulance on a stretcher in serious condition after the shooting. Henderson described hearing two gunshots and witnessing people running from the scene.

“I first heard two shots go off, and then I seen some people running,” Henderson said. “I walk over there, and I see a girl laying down, and like, it’s like blood by her leg.”

Chicago police sources detailed that the girl was shot in the upper right thigh and was receiving treatment at Northwestern Memorial Hospital. The circumstances leading up to the shooting involved a verbal altercation between the teen and a Jewel-Osco security guard. During this confrontation, the teen reportedly poured water on the guard, who then pulled out a handgun and fired.

Identity and Background of the Victim

The victim has been identified as the homeless girl reported missing from the Minneapolis area in January. The Minnesota Bureau of Criminal Apprehension confirmed that the missing person alert has been canceled now that she was located.

“She was located. Thank you to everyone who assisted in locating and for sharing the information,” the agency said in a statement.

An administrator of a Facebook page dedicated to missing person cases is working to help reconnect the teen with her family, highlighting the critical need for support and safe connections for vulnerable youth.

Arrest and Investigation into the Security Guard’s Role

The security guard involved in the shooting was apprehended after fleeing the scene. Police arrested the individual on the 8100 block of South Saginaw Avenue shortly after the incident. Investigators recovered several pieces of evidence from the guard’s vehicle, including what is believed to be the firearm used in the shooting.

The security guard reportedly initiated the shooting following the verbal dispute.
The teen had poured water on the guard prior to the shooting.
The guard fled the scene but was quickly arrested without further incident.

Jewel-Osco has yet to provide details on whether the security guard was authorized to carry a firearm or any comments regarding the company’s use of force policies. Notably, a review of Jewel-Osco’s official policies on their website revealed no mentions of armed security personnel on duty at their stores.

Safety Concerns and Community Impact

This shooting incident raises important questions about security measures in retail environments and the protection of both employees and vulnerable populations such as homeless youth. The tragic event has stirred discussions around:

The role and training of security personnel in handling conflicts.
Policies regarding armed guards in retail establishments.
Support systems for homeless and missing youth struggling with safety outdoors.

The full story and ongoing updates can be found on CBS News Chicago.

What Does This Mean for the Community?

The shooting of this vulnerable teen underscores the urgent need for improved safety protocols and compassionate outreach programs aimed at at-risk youth. Advocates emphasize the importance of:

Creating safe spaces for homeless young people.
Enhancing security guard training and oversight to prevent similar incidents.
Increasing community awareness and cooperation to find and protect missing individuals.

“This incident is a devastating reminder of the challenges faced by homeless youth and the critical importance of community vigilance and comprehensive safety policies,” said a local advocate familiar with youth outreach efforts.

What do you think about this incident and the safety measures in place at retail stores? Have you or someone you know experienced or witnessed similar situations? Share your thoughts in the comments below!