New Chicago Police Investigating Homicide
On Wednesday, January 1, 2025, at approximately 10:56 PM, New Chicago Officers were dispatched to 24 Arthur Ave in response to a disturbance in progress, according to New Chicago Police Chief Earl Mayo. Upon arrival, officers discovered a Hispanic male lying on the ground with multiple gunshot wounds, including a serious injury to the head.
Officers immediately initiated lifesaving measures until medics arrived on the scene. The victim was subsequently transported to St. Mary’s Medical Center and later flown to Christ Memorial Hospital in Chicago for further treatment. Despite the efforts of medical staff, the male succumbed to his injuries.
Witnesses reported hearing loud screams prior to a physical altercation, which escalated into gunfire. Following the shots, several individuals fled the scene in a black Cadillac.
The victim was identified by the Cook County Medical Examiner’s Office as Edward Ruiz Jr, 42, of Hammond.
Chief Mayo emphasized that this incident is isolated and poses no ongoing threat to the general public. The New Chicago Police Department is actively investigating the circumstances surrounding this event.
Anyone with information regarding this incident is encouraged to contact Detective Dickerson at gdickerson@newchicagoin.gov or Detective Rivera at brivera@newchicagoin.gov.
Chief Mayo extended gratitude to the following agencies for their assistance, New Chicago Fire Department, Hobart Fire Department and Medics, Lake Station Police Department, Hobart Police Department, Winfield Police Department, and Northwest Indiana Major Crimes Task Force.
Anyone with information is urged to come forward.
