Ahmani Hicks fondly remembers her son, Marcus Chatman, as a bright, lovable 14-year-old who played for a football team in Dolton, Illinois. Marcus was known for his cheerful demeanor and his ability to connect with people easily. Hicks describes him as someone whose kindness knew no bounds, mentioning how he’d give away his shirt and shoes if someone needed them.
Tragically, Marcus was shot and killed on June 18 at approximately 11:30 p.m. on the 8000 block of South Carpenter in Chicago’s Auburn Gresham area. Hicks was preparing for his 15th birthday party but instead found herself planning a private funeral.
Marcus brought joy and excitement to his family, always ready with a joke or a dance move. His family cherished his vibrant personality, often putting him on speakerphone to share his humor. The loss has been devastating, impacting his family’s ability to engage in normal activities like football practice.
The Midwest Hawks Youth Football team, where Marcus played, has rallied around Hicks’ family, offering support by delivering groceries and spending time with them. A social media post from the team expressed their sorrow over Marcus’s senseless death and praised Hicks for her longstanding support and dedication.
Hicks is awaiting justice for Marcus’s killing. Her youngest child frequently inquires about any developments in the case. Hicks feels closure will only come when those responsible are held accountable, ensuring they cannot harm others.
Chicago police informed Hicks of video evidence showing Marcus being shot in the back by a person he considered a friend. The video also reveals other individuals fleeing the scene, leaving Marcus behind. Hicks learned about the incident through a phone call from one of the alleged friend’s sisters, eventually discovering Marcus was pronounced dead upon arrival at a hospital.
Hicks accessed Marcus’s Instagram account, revealing messages from friends in a group chat naming the shooter and expressing regret over the act. Hicks shared screenshots of the conversation, warning other parents about the dangers of negative influences.
Hicks cautioned parents to trust their instincts and guide their children wisely. She recognized Marcus had fallen in with the wrong crowd, a group that included individuals aged 16 to 20 with no school attendance. The group had even tried to persuade Marcus to join Job Corps.
Since Marcus’s death, Hicks’s other sons are experiencing sleep disturbances and anxiety. Despite their love for football, they have been reluctant to return to practice. The constant reminders of Marcus’s absence through photos, social media posts, and daily thoughts have been difficult for the family.
The Midwest Hawks have provided significant emotional support to the family, reminding them of the love shared within their community. Hicks appreciates the team’s efforts, including their visits and grocery deliveries.
In honor of Marcus’s birthday on June 26, Hicks plans to organize a balloon release. His death was among several violent incidents over the recent holiday weekend in Chicago, which saw eight fatalities and numerous injuries. Local leaders have urged the city to establish a Department of Gun Violence Prevention to focus on reducing shootings and ensure violence prevention policies remain stable amid political changes.