ILLINOIS — A 17-year-old boy described by loved ones as “very kind and respectful” was shot and killed while working at a fast-food restaurant on Sunday evening.
The victim, Rodrigo F., was struck in the head after a vehicle pulled up to the drive-through window and its occupants opened fire, according to police.
Detectives with the Area One Division are investigating the case as a targeted shooting, though no suspects have been identified or arrested. Authorities said the shooter fled in a dark-colored Jeep SUV, leaving Rodrigo fatally wounded inside the restaurant.
The incident occurred around 7 p.m., when Rodrigo, a high school senior, was helping a customer at the drive-through window. Witnesses reported that a Jeep Cherokee drove up as he opened the partition, and one or more people inside fired multiple rounds, hitting him once in the head.
Police and first responders rushed Rodrigo to a nearby hospital, where he was pronounced dead shortly after arrival. Surveillance footage captured the shooting, showing the SUV pull up and speed away moments later. Investigators are still working to determine a motive.
Rodrigo’s family and community are heartbroken. His mother shared that he loved soccer, video games, and drinking coffee with her in the mornings. His brother wrote on a GoFundMe page, “He was a 17-year-old boy who enjoyed working and being with his family and friends. Rodrigo was a nice, gentle, smart young man. He never did any wrong to anyone.”
Neighbor S. Romero described the family as quiet and hardworking. “No parties, quiet people, very kind, respectful boys,” she said. “I don’t know why they would have shot him. It just doesn’t make sense.”
Detectives continue to review video footage and interview witnesses as they try to track down the SUV involved. The investigation remains open, and police are urging anyone with information to come forward, stressing that public tips could help identify those responsible.
As the investigation continues, Rodrigo’s family is left mourning a life cut short. The teen had been saving money from his part-time job while finishing high school, hoping to help his family and pursue his studies. His death — sudden, brutal, and senseless — has left a deep void in a home once filled with laughter.
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