A community is in mourning following the tragic death of 17-year-old DeAngelo Miles, a recent graduate of Hansberry College Prep.
Miles, who was the captain of the school’s football team and an exemplary student-athlete, was shot and killed just days after receiving his diploma.
Principal Kashawndra Wilson described him as an outstanding individual with limitless potential, stating, “We have to stop losing our young people. This amazing young Black boy had unlimited potential that was snatched away from us.”
The heartbreaking event took place around 3:08 a.m. Sunday in the 11900-block of South Wallace Street in the West Pullman neighborhood, according to Chicago police.
Miles was discovered with a gunshot wound to the head and subsequently died from his injuries.
The motive behind the shooting remains unclear, with Principal Wilson noting, “From our perspective, there was no trouble in school. We don’t have any details as to what and why,” highlighting the unexpected nature of this tragedy.
Following his graduation just a few days prior, the school community posted a heartfelt tribute to honor Miles.
He had aspirations of joining the Navy and had been working a summer job with the Chicago Park District.
According to family members, DeAngelo was attending an after-prom party with friends when the shooting occurred.
His relatives reported that police indicated it could have been a robbery that escalated into violence, where he was robbed of his shoes, money, and cell phone.
Principal Wilson expressed her deep sorrow, stating, “This is a devastating loss for our community. The baby just graduated last Thursday.”
In commemorating his life, Wilson shared that Miles was not only dedicated to academics but was also a charismatic presence at the school, filming TikToks and interviewing fellow students.
“He truly was a star in the making, with a smile and a heart of gold,” she reflected.
Miles was cherished by his peers, and many friends returned to school Monday to participate in grief counseling provided by the institution.
His mother, Kevina Fleming, also shared her anguish over the loss of her son.
“That was my baby. They took my baby,” she expressed in devastation.
Fleming recounted the last time she saw DeAngelo, as he was on his way to a friend’s prom, and his plans to return home after spending time with friends.
She described the moment she learned of the tragedy, stating, “He called one of his younger brothers right after midnight to say he was on his way home, but he never made it. He was shot in the neck.”
The silence in their home now serves as a painful reminder of Miles’ vibrant spirit, something Fleming deeply mourns.
“I lost a part of myself by losing him. He was the life of the house, cracking jokes and making everyone laugh,” she recalled, emphasizing the profound impact of his absence.
As the family prepares for a funeral at a time when they should be celebrating his graduation, the grief within the community continues to resonate.
On Monday, the atmosphere at Hansberry College Prep was somber as staff and students gathered to honor Miles’ life and seek support in their time of loss.
Counseling services were made available throughout the day as students and staff coped with the loss of a beloved peer.
No arrests have been made in connection with the shooting; the Chicago police are actively investigating the case to uncover more details surrounding this heartbreaking incident.
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