Kevin Watson, a 40-year-old entrepreneur from Austin, was shot and killed shortly after he began streaming on Facebook Live.
The incident occurred around 6:15 p.m. on Wednesday in the 5000 block of West Madison Street, when a vehicle approached Watson and shots were fired, according to Chicago police and his sister, Teletha Watson.
Teletha, 35, frantically made her way to Mount Sinai Hospital after receiving the tragic news: her brother had been shot while broadcasting to his followers.
Just hours before the shooting, the siblings had shared a light-hearted moment at a local gas station, buying popsicles and candy together.
As she rushed to the hospital, Teletha recalled her thoughts, believing that her brother would pull through.
“He’s a fighter,” she expressed. “He’s going to be okay. Nothing’s going to happen. I’m almost there.”
Despite her hopes, Kevin Watson was pronounced dead shortly after arriving at the hospital, suffering a gunshot wound to the chest.
The pain of losing her brother has left Teletha devastated.
“We can’t eat, we can’t sleep, my head has been banging,” she said. “I’m hurt, I’m angry, I’m sad, I’m sick. I don’t even believe that this is the new reality.”
Known for his unwavering principles and commitment to non-violence, Kevin Watson chose to confront the assailant rather than resort to violence.
According to Teletha, when approached by the gunman, he stepped out of his car, confronting the attacker rather than drawing a weapon, which ultimately led to his fatal shooting.
The footage from his Facebook Live stream captured the moment he engaged with the assailant.
In the video, Watson can be heard saying, “What’s up bro?” and “What’s up?” before expressing disbelief at the situation and stepping outside his vehicle.
Teletha emphasized her brother’s dedication to peaceful conflict resolution: “He gave them a pass, and I want people to know that he gave them the chance to fight like men.”
Kevin Watson was more than just a victim; he was a community figure known for promoting local parties and events as well as fostering the growth of younger generations.
With his infectious smile and vibrant personality, he made a lasting impression on those around him.
“My brother was the goofiest, the funniest, the most liveliest person I know,” Teletha fondly remembered. “He was there in the present for these kids, for his family.”
His love for children was evident in the way he cared for his 7-year-old son, as well as his nieces and nephews.
After navigating a turbulent youth, Watson committed himself to guiding younger family members, encouraging them to pursue education and athletics.
“He loved kids and wanted to teach them there is a non-violent way to live life,” said Teletha.
As the community grapples with his untimely death, many remember Kevin Watson not only for his tragic end but also for the positive influence he aimed to impart on those who looked up to him.
image source from：chicago
