CHICAGO, IL — A community filled with pride and promise has been plunged into grief following the tragic death of 17-year-old DeAngelo Miles, a beloved high school football star who was gunned down just days after his graduation. The shooting occurred early Sunday morning, shocking residents of Chicago’s South Side and cutting short a life filled with potential.
The news of DeAngelo’s death has sent ripples of sorrow across the city. Friends, coaches, teachers, and family members are left grappling with the sudden loss of a young man who had dreams of playing college football and giving back to his community.
A Rising Star on and off the Field
DeAngelo Miles wasn’t just a name in the headlines—he was a local hero in the making. A senior at Gwendolyn Brooks College Prep, he had recently walked across the graduation stage, celebrating a major milestone that marked the beginning of what many believed would be a bright future. Standing at 6’1” with explosive speed and a fierce work ethic, DeAngelo was a standout wide receiver and team captain, drawing interest from several Division I colleges.
“He was the kind of kid you root for,” said Coach Jamal Henderson, who had mentored DeAngelo since his freshman year. “Humble, focused, respectful—and a natural leader. He was the heart of our team.”
Off the field, DeAngelo was equally committed to success. Teachers recall a student who was serious about his studies and eager to build a better life—not only for himself but for his younger siblings, whom he often cared for after school.
“He talked about going to college so he could be an example to his little brother,” said Ms. Reed, one of his teachers. “He had goals, he had a plan. And now, it’s just… gone.”
The Tragic Shooting
The shooting happened around 2:15 a.m. Sunday in the Roseland neighborhood, not far from where DeAngelo lived. According to the Chicago Police Department, officers responded to multiple gunshots reported near the 11000 block of South Michigan Avenue. Upon arrival, they found DeAngelo unresponsive on the sidewalk with multiple gunshot wounds. He was pronounced dead at the scene.
Authorities have not yet released information on a suspect or possible motive. As of now, no arrests have been made. Investigators are reviewing surveillance footage from nearby cameras and asking for witnesses to come forward.
“It’s still early in the investigation,” said CPD spokesperson Officer Luis Rodriguez. “We’re pursuing all leads and are urging anyone with information to help us bring justice to this family.”
A Family’s Grief
The pain was raw as DeAngelo’s mother, Latoya Miles, spoke briefly to local media Sunday afternoon.
“My baby didn’t deserve this,” she said through tears. “He just graduated. He had dreams. He had a future. Now I have to bury my son. I don’t know how to do that.”
The Miles family had planned a celebration for DeAngelo’s graduation this week. Instead, they are now planning a funeral.
Community members have gathered at a growing memorial near the scene of the shooting—placing candles, flowers, photos, and DeAngelo’s #11 football jersey on the sidewalk in his honor.
Community Demands Action
DeAngelo’s death has reignited urgent conversations about gun violence in Chicago, particularly its impact on young Black men with promise and potential. Activists and community leaders have called for increased investment in youth programs, mental health services, and violence prevention strategies in underserved neighborhoods.
“We’re tired of burying our future,” said Pastor Michael Jennings of New Hope Baptist Church, who knew DeAngelo from youth football camps. “We talk about crime, but this is deeper than that. We need to change the conditions that are stealing our children’s lives.”
A vigil is scheduled for Wednesday evening at the football field of Gwendolyn Brooks College Prep, where DeAngelo scored his final touchdown just two months ago. Organizers are expecting hundreds of students, athletes, and local leaders to attend.
Remembering DeAngelo
As the investigation continues, those who knew DeAngelo are choosing to remember him not by the tragic way he died, but by the powerful way he lived.
“He was more than a football player,” said longtime friend Malachi Johnson. “He was a brother, a leader, a dreamer. And we won’t let his name be forgotten.”
Tributes have poured in on social media, with former teammates, rival coaches, and even college recruiters sharing memories and condolences.
One post reads:
“Rest in power, DeAngelo. Your light was bright, and your impact will last forever. #LLDM #11Forever”
How You Can Help
A GoFundMe page has been launched to help the Miles family cover funeral expenses and establish a scholarship in DeAngelo’s name. Contributions can be made through verified channels, and community members are also encouraged to participate in anti-violence initiatives and mentorship programs supporting at-risk youth.
Anyone with information about the shooting is urged to contact the Chicago Police Department or Crime Stoppers anonymously at (800) 535-STOP.
The post High School Football Star DeAngelo Miles Killed Days After Graduation: South Side Chicago Community Devastated first appeared on Voxtrend News.
