Thousands gathered at Guaranteed Rate Field in Chicago to celebrate Pope Leo XIV in a special event that featured a full Catholic mass and a video message from the Pope himself. The celebration, highlighted by ‘Fox & Friends First’ co-host Carley Shimkus, brought together the community for a moment of faith and unity.
However, the excitement of the day was overshadowed by a serious incident that occurred during a White Sox game on August 25, 2023. A shooting took place at the ballpark, injuring two women. A 42-year-old woman was shot in the leg, while a 26-year-old woman suffered a graze wound to her abdomen but declined medical attention. The 42-year-old subsequently filed a lawsuit against the team, claiming negligence and recklessness.
The shooting created panic among fans, with videos showing people fleeing the stadium. The game continued despite the chaos, and the White Sox ultimately lost to the Oakland Athletics 12-4. The postgame concert featuring Vanilla Ice was canceled due to "technical issues," which added to the disappointment of many attendees.
It remains unclear how a weapon made it into the stadium, as the venue has strict rules prohibiting firearms and other weapons. Fans reported going through metal detectors upon entry, raising questions about security measures at the ballpark.
In the aftermath, the owner of the White Sox, Jerry Reinsdorf, is set to be deposed as part of the ongoing legal proceedings related to the shooting. This incident has raised serious concerns about safety at sporting events and the effectiveness of current security protocols.
As the community reflects on both the celebration of faith and the stark reality of violence, the event serves as a reminder of the need for vigilance in public spaces.