Man Found with Gunshot Wound Near Crash in Chicago's Heart of Chicago

Police say the victim crashed into a pole and was found nearby with a gunshot wound to the back.

Published on Feb. 24, 2026

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A man was found with a gunshot wound near a car crash in the Heart of Chicago neighborhood of Chicago on Wednesday night. The victim, believed to be in his 20s, was driving through an alley when he crashed into a pole. He then got out of the car and was found nearby with a gunshot wound to the back. The man was taken to Mt. Sinai hospital in critical condition, and no one is in custody.

Why it matters

Gun violence and traffic accidents are ongoing public safety concerns in Chicago's neighborhoods, especially in areas like the Heart of Chicago that have historically seen higher rates of crime. This incident raises questions about the circumstances surrounding the shooting and whether it was connected to the car crash.

The details

According to police, the incident occurred around 10:29 p.m. on Wednesday in the 2200 block of West Cermak Road. The victim was driving through an alley when he crashed his car into a pole. He then exited the vehicle and was found nearby with a gunshot wound to the back. The man was transported to Mt. Sinai hospital in critical condition, but no arrests have been made.

  • The incident occurred around 10:29 p.m. on Wednesday, February 19, 2026.

The players

The Victim

A man believed to be in his 20s who was driving the vehicle that crashed into a pole.

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What’s next

Police are investigating the circumstances surrounding the shooting and whether it was connected to the car crash. They are also searching for any suspects or witnesses to the incident.

The takeaway

This incident highlights the ongoing challenges Chicago faces in addressing gun violence and traffic safety, particularly in neighborhoods like the Heart of Chicago that have historically seen higher rates of crime. It underscores the need for comprehensive public safety strategies that address the root causes of violence and promote safer streets for all residents.