A drive-by shooting outside the Artis Lounge nightclub in downtown Chicago left three dead and 16 wounded late Saturday night, just as partygoers exited an album release event for rapper Mello Buckzz.

The violence, which erupted in the 300 block of West Chicago Avenue, has raised concerns about safety in nightlife areas, particularly as this incident follows a previous shooting at the venue when it was known as Hush Lounge, which resulted in one death and three injuries. The latest shooting underscores ongoing challenges with gun violence in the city and the implications for public safety during major events.

The incident occurred shortly after the album release party, which began at 7 p.m. local time. Attendees of the event were reportedly enjoying an evening of high-end dining and entertainment when the shooting transpired. Eyewitnesses recounted a sudden burst of chaos as guests began to exit the venue amid the celebrations.

According to the Chicago Police Department, the assailants approached the nightclub in a vehicle and opened fire on the crowd as people were leaving. Law enforcement officials are investigating the shooting, which was described as a drive-by incident, complicating the immediate assessment of the motives behind it.

Emergency responders arrived on the scene shortly after the shots were fired, where they treated the injured and transported them to local hospitals. Among the victims, at least three people were killed and 16 others wounded in the aftermath of the shooting.

This incident is not the first time the location has faced gun violence. The Artis Lounge, previously known as Hush Lounge, experienced a shooting in November 2022 that left one person dead and three others wounded. Following this earlier incident, police authorities temporarily shut down Hush Lounge, citing public safety concerns, eventually allowing the venue to reopen under its new name, Artis Lounge.

The timing of this incident, occurring during a high-profile album release party, has drawn attention to the risks associated with large public gatherings in areas with a history of violence. As nightlife continues to attract crowds, officials are under increased pressure to ensure safety and security in such environments.

Mayor's office representatives and city officials have expressed their condolences to the victims' families while emphasizing the city’s commitment to addressing gun violence and enhancing security measures in nightlife districts. Recent weeks had seen calls for increased police presence and community safety initiatives, particularly in areas known for nighttime entertainment.

In the wake of this shooting, discussions surrounding nightlife regulations and preventative measures are expected to intensify. Experts in urban safety have suggested that enhanced security measures at venues, including better surveillance and security personnel, could help mitigate risks associated with crowded events and prevent such tragedies in the future.

Community responses are likely to focus on resilience and recovery, with local organizations and businesses potentially rallying together in support of those affected. The events of Saturday night may serve as a catalyst for community-led initiatives aimed at promoting a safer environment for nightlife patrons.

As the investigation progresses, police are appealing for any eyewitness accounts or video footage that might provide deeper insights into the perpetrators and the circumstances surrounding the shooting. This information will be crucial as they piece together the timeline and the motive behind the tragic event.