Gunfire Near Park Sends Children Running, Screaming

Gunfire that one man said sounded like it came from a high-caliber gun sent children screaming and running away from a west suburban park Thursday night.

A subsequent search of the area, near the Sharp Park Community Center, in Melrose Park, turned up the body of a 17-year-old boy, officials confirmed.

Neighbors near the area of North 35th Street and West Soffel Avenue reported hearing four loud shots around 6:30 p.m. 

"I don't know any details, but it's very sad that it happened in broad daylight with children nearby," said Claudia Samperio, 27, who lives nearby. "It is very scary for the community and people who take their kids there all the time."

Police are expected to release more details on Friday.

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