Mello Buckz Shooting: Everything We Know About the Tragic Incident

Liputan6.com, Jakarta A tragic drive-by shooting occurred on the night of July 2, 2025, outside a nightclub in Chicago’s River North neighborhood during the album release party of emerging local rapper Mello Buckzz, whose real name is Melanie Doyle.

The shooting took place around 11 p.m. CDT outside Artis Restaurant and Lounge, where Mello Buckzz was celebrating the launch of her debut mixtape HollyHOOD. A dark-colored SUV drove past the venue, and at least three occupants opened fire on a crowd of people leaving the party. The brief but deadly attack left four people dead—two men aged 24 and 25, and two women aged 26 and 27—and 14 others injured, some critically.

Among the deceased were Mello Buckzz’s boyfriend and best friend, a devastating personal loss she mourned publicly on social media, expressing heartbreak and pleading for prayers. She had already left the venue before the shooting began, according to police.

Authorities recovered handgun and rifle rounds at the scene and are investigating the possibility of multiple shooters. No arrests have been made yet, but police are examining whether the shooting was retaliation for a recent incident. The event marks another tragic chapter in Chicago’s ongoing struggle with gun violence.

Witnesses described the chaotic scene as "absolute chaos," with people screaming and blood on the streets. Chicago Mayor Brandon Johnson condemned the shooting, emphasizing the city’s commitment to holding those responsible accountable.

Despite the recent tragedy, Mello Buckzz officially released her HollyHOOD project the following day, featuring collaborations with prominent Chicago artists, underscoring her resilience amid grief.

This shooting has deeply impacted Chicago’s music community and highlights the urgent need for solutions to curb violence in the city.