A 17-year-old high school football prodigy and team captain was gunned down a few days after graduating. Per TMZ, the fatal incident occurred in Chicago in the wee hours of Sunday, and the victim was identified as DeAngelo Miles.
Miles’ killing came after he graduated from the Hansberry College Prep school on May 29. Authorities said they responded to the crime scene after they received a report about the shooting. A witness informed the responding officers that the victim was found in an alley at the 11900 block of S. Wallace after shots rang out.
“The witness relocated to where the victim was and discovered the victim unresponsive on the ground with a gunshot wound to the head,” a Chicago Police Department spokesperson said. “He was pronounced on scene. There is no one in custody, and Area Two Detectives are investigating.”
In the wake of the fatal incident, Miles’ family said the victim and his friends were attending an after-prom party when he was shot. Police also said they suspect it was a botched robbery.
The Principal of Hansberry College Prep school, Kashawndra Wilson, paid tribute to Miles, saying that the teen intended to enlist in the Navy.
“Our hearts are heavy as we grieve his passing,” the school said in a statement. “We extend our deepest sympathies and offer our thoughts and prayers to his family, friends, and all those affected by this tragic loss.”
Wilson said a memorial and balloon release ceremony will be held in honor of Miles.