Chicago, IL — A 35-year-old man from Calumet City has been charged with first-degree murder after allegedly shooting a woman as she was stepping off a private bus on Chicago’s South Side. Police say the suspect fled the scene but was later arrested following a high-speed police chase through the city.
According to Chicago police, Demar King was riding on the same bus when he shot 40-year-old Odeal G. Curley on Saturday afternoon in the 5400 block of South Shields Avenue.
The Fatal Shooting
Witnesses told investigators that King pulled out a firearm and shot the victim in the thigh as she was getting off the bus. First responders arrived quickly and rendered aid before transporting Curley to the University of Chicago Hospital, where she later died from her injuries.
The Cook County Medical Examiner’s Office identified the victim as Odeal G. Curley, confirming she died from a single gunshot wound.
“She was treated at the scene for a gunshot wound to the thigh and taken to the University of Chicago Hospital where she later died,” authorities said in their report.
Police Chase and Arrest
Detectives identified King as the suspected shooter shortly after the incident. Several hours later, officers spotted his vehicle in traffic and called for backup from the Illinois State Police.
According to FOX 32 Chicago, King attempted to flee from police before being captured in the 2000 block of South Union Avenue.
“The suspect fled in his vehicle, refusing to stop for police units,” officials said. “He was taken into custody after a brief pursuit that resulted in property damage.”
Charges Filed Against Demar King
King has been charged with:
- First-degree murder
- Aggravated fleeing causing damage over $300
- Aggravated fleeing police (21 mph over the limit)
He also faces several misdemeanor charges, including speeding 35+ mph over the limit and resisting or obstructing peace officers, along with multiple traffic citations.
Court records show that King is scheduled to appear for a detention hearing on Tuesday, where prosecutors are expected to argue for him to remain in custody pending trial.
Community Reaction and Next Steps
The shooting has renewed concern about rising public safety issues across Chicago’s South Side neighborhoods. Community members have called for stronger measures to curb gun violence on public transit and in residential areas.
Authorities continue to investigate what led up to the shooting and whether the victim and suspect knew each other. Police have not yet disclosed a motive.
“Our detectives are still gathering evidence and interviewing witnesses to determine the circumstances behind this tragic incident,” a Chicago Police spokesperson said.
King remains in custody at the Cook County Jail awaiting his court appearance.
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