2 teens injured in Bud Billiken Parade shooting

CHICAGO (WLS) -- Gunfire marred what is supposed to be a family-friendly Bud Billiken Parade as parade-goers ducked for cover just as the parade was ending.

Two teenagers are hospitalized with bullet wounds. Police say they were both shot following some type of argument near 42nd and King Drive, which is right on the parade route.

The 85th annual Bud Billiken Day Parade in the Bronzeville community is an anticipated peaceful event that promotes protecting young people, however on Saturday afternoon people heard gunfire and started running for cover, fearing for their safety and the safety of their children.

Police confirm that an 18-year-old male was shot in the left arm and was transported to Northwestern Memorial Hospital in stable condition. Police said the victim was standing on the street corner when a group of unknown males approached on foot. A verbal altercation ensued and an individual from the group produced a gun and shot the victim.

A 17-year-old male was also shot in the hand and grazed in the buttocks. He was taken to Stroger Hospital, where he is also listed in stable condition.

"I just got upset because this is the one day for the children," said witness Sherri Grover. "We have a lot of babies out here. Hey Chicago, can't we come together? You gang members, please stop the shooting, stop the violence."

The parade is attended by thousands of families. Gunfire is the last thing they expect to confront. Sarita Hawthorne is from out of town and wanted her children to experience the parade she grew up attending.

"Chicago has a lot to offer and it's just sad that we have to experience this type of violence in our city, especially people like me who come back with our children to share the experiences I had coming up, and it's just sad, it's devastating. I don't want to ever have to go through this," Hawthorne said.

No charges have been filed.