CHICAGO, — Authorities are offering a reward of up to $10,000 for information leading to the arrest of the person responsible for the shooting death of a Chicago mother of five who was killed while walking to church in the city’s Woodlawn neighborhood.
Kiara Jenkins, 36, was shot multiple times early Sunday morning, Jan. 17, in an alley behind her home near 64th Street and Drexel Avenue, according to investigators. Jenkins lived on the city’s South Side and was a resident of the Washington Heights area.
Police said the shooting occurred at approximately 4:30 a.m. as Jenkins was on her way to attend the 5 a.m. service at Mt. Bethlehem Missionary Baptist Church, which she regularly attended, according to church members cited by ABC7 Chicago.
At the time of the shooting, Jenkins had left her home on foot and was walking to morning church services when she was gunned down.
Illinois authorities announced a reward of up to $10,000 for information that leads to the arrest of the suspect responsible for her death.
“This was a senseless act of violence that never should have happened,” 20th Ward Alderwoman Jeanette Taylor said in a statement. “This tragedy has shaken our community deeply.”
“Her children are now left without their mother,” Taylor added. “No words can lessen that pain, but it is important to say clearly that her life had value and her family deserves support, compassion and justice. Our children and families deserve protection, stability and the chance to live without fear.”
Community members described Jenkins as a devoted mother and a woman deeply committed to her faith. According to WBBM, her children range in age from a college freshman to 10 years old.
Investigators have not said whether they believe Jenkins was intentionally targeted or if the shooting was random. Her family said she would have celebrated her 37th birthday this coming Sunday and described her as a very religious person who was dedicated to her church.
Chicago police continue to investigate the killing and are urging anyone with information to come forward.
