On a chilly Friday morning at the UIC Blue Line station, Sabrina Holton gathered with family and friends to honor her uncle, John Flemister, whose life was tragically cut short.
With his photo displayed alongside white roses and candles, Holton reminisced about the fond memories shared with her uncle, known for his welcoming nature in their Bronzeville neighborhood.
Flemister, a 61-year-old doorman beloved by locals, was shot outside the UIC Blue Line station on April 12 by Luther Hopkins III, an on-duty CTA employee, during an alleged altercation over an unpaid fare, according to authorities.
Witnesses described Flemister as a gentle and caring person, expressing disbelief over the portrayal of the incident that led to his death.
In the wake of the tragedy, community members have rallied, demanding transparency in the investigation and calling for the release of CTA surveillance footage related to the shooting.
A memorial gathering dubbed “Justice for John” was organized by Kelly Hoffman, a property manager who worked with Flemister.
The march attracted around 30 participants who walked to various buildings where Flemister worked, sharing stories and memories.
At the march’s start, Janice Flemister, John’s twin sister, led a prayer, invoking peace and unity as attendees held signs demanding justice and accountability.
Residents participating in the march affirmed their disbelief about the circumstances surrounding the shooting, defending Flemister’s character as a non-confrontational individual.
Kelly Hoffman expressed concerns that the narrative created by authorities and media surrounding the incident contradicts the kind, peaceful person they knew Flemister to be.
Prosecutors assert that security footage shows a tense exchange between Flemister and Hopkins, suggesting that Flemister was agitated.
During the incident, both men were armed.
Flemister reportedly brandished a firearm from his duffel bag, and in the ensuing chaos, he was hit multiple times by Hopkins, who fired his weapon.
Flemister succumbed to his injuries shortly after being transported to Stroger Hospital.
The Cook County State’s Attorney’s Office stated that it found insufficient evidence to charge Hopkins with murder, leading to ongoing frustration and questions among community members who feel the investigation lacks thoroughness.
Residents expressed their doubts about the portrayal of the conflict, citing Flemister’s history of non-confrontation.
Witnesses reported differing accounts of the shooting, emphasizing that the narrative painted by police does not reflect Flemister’s true character.
At subsequent meetings, residents demanded the release of surveillance footage to shed light on the event and began advocating for Flemister’s family.
Frustrations grew as it became evident that certain witnesses had not been contacted by the police, raising concerns about transparency in the ongoing investigation.
Alderman Bill Conway attended community meetings to address concerns and explained the legal processes regarding video footage releases, which are often withheld to protect investigations.
Community members are anxious about the potential for similar incidents in the future, expressing concerns that CTA employees may be engaging in unlawful behavior while on duty.
They shared that their worries stem not only from the circumstances of the incident but also a fear that those entrusted with their safety may be acting irresponsibly while on the job.
In the aftermath of the memorial march, people continue to pay homage to Flemister at the site of his death, leaving flowers and memories of the man they cherished.
Holton, continuing to visit her uncle’s home, reflects on the profound loss, asserting that Flemister was a good man whose only desire was to live peacefully and care for those around him.
Residents have rallied around initiatives to raise funds to support Flemister’s family, reflecting the community’s commitment to ensuring that justice is pursued and remembered.
The pain of loss is palpable in West Loop as those who knew him fight to preserve his memory and advocate for truth in the wake of his senseless death.
image source from：https://blockclubchicago.org/2025/04/28/west-loop-neighbors-demand-justice-for-john-after-beloved-doorman-shot-dead-by-cta-worker/
