Safe Celebrations: Local Alderman Lamont Robinson’s Efforts to Keep 31st Street Beach Secure This Fourth of July

Lamont Robinson, the local Alderman, expressed concern over the recent shootings that had taken place near 31st Street Beach. As a result, he put in place a 9 p.m. curfew that was set to take effect on July 4th. The beach was filled with adults over the age of 35 who were enjoying their time with their families without causing any trouble.

Vernell Watkins grilled out at the beach on the Fourth of July and expressed his displeasure about the curfew that was about to be implemented. He felt that it was unnecessary since the adults present were not causing any trouble. However, Lester Watkins agreed with the curfew and mentioned an incident where a young lady stabbed someone recently. On June 30th, a 17-year-old girl stabbed a concealed carry license holder, who then shot her in response. On June 21st, a confrontation in a parking lot near the beach led to a couple being killed.

Other incidents included a shootout at 31st Street Harbor, where two people died and multiple individuals were taken into custody. Additionally, two women were shot, one fatally, in a parking lot near the beach. In response to these incidents, the Chicago Police Department increased their presence around the beach and implemented bag checkpoints at the entrance points to ensure safety.

Robinson stated that he would re-evaluate the curfew every day after the holiday to determine if it needed to continue or be lifted altogether. He believed that it was essential for everyone’s safety while still allowing them to enjoy their time at the beach.

The community members present were grateful for Robinson’s efforts in ensuring safety at the beach during this time of year when many families gather there for celebrations like Independence Day.