Memorial Held for Adam Toledo 5 Years After Police Shooting

Family and friends gather to remember 13-year-old killed in controversial police encounter.

Mar. 29, 2026 at 8:38pm

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

On the 5-year anniversary of Adam Toledo's death, his family and community members came together to hold a memorial for the 13-year-old boy who was shot and killed by a Chicago police officer in 2021. The event, dubbed Toledo's 'angelversary', took place behind Farragut Career Academy in Chicago.

Why it matters

The shooting of Adam Toledo sparked outrage and protests over police use of force, particularly against young people of color. It reignited calls for reforms to police foot chase policies and greater accountability for officers involved in controversial shootings.

The details

In March 2021, Toledo and 21-year-old Ruben Roman were standing on a street corner when gunshots were fired. They then ran into a nearby alley, where Officer Eric Stillman chased and fatally shot Toledo less than a second after the boy dropped a gun he had been carrying. Footage of the incident showed Toledo had his hands up and appeared unarmed when Stillman opened fire.

  • The shooting occurred on March 29, 2021.
  • The memorial event was held on the 5-year anniversary of Toledo's death, on March 29, 2026.

The players

Adam Toledo

A 13-year-old boy who was shot and killed by a Chicago police officer in 2021.

Elizabeth Toledo

Adam Toledo's mother, who spoke at the memorial event and called for justice for her son.

Officer Eric Stillman

The Chicago police officer who fatally shot Adam Toledo in 2021.

Ruben Roman

A 21-year-old who was with Adam Toledo when the shooting incident occurred.

David Brown

The former Chicago police superintendent who did not agree with a recommendation to fire Officer Stillman.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“This shouldn't have happened. I just want justice for my son.”

— Elizabeth Toledo, Adam Toledo's mother

What’s next

A civil rights trial surrounding the shooting of Adam Toledo is scheduled to begin one week from Monday, on April 6.

The takeaway

The memorial for Adam Toledo highlights the ongoing pain and calls for accountability in the wake of his controversial death at the hands of a Chicago police officer. This case has become a symbol of the need for reforms to policing practices and greater transparency when officers use deadly force, especially against young people of color.