Albert Sykes was 16 when he was fatally shot on November 29, 2004, in Chicago. He was found with multiple gunshot wounds in a neighborhood described as having high crime rates. Early investigators believed the shooting might have been gang-related after reports that Albert had been seen associating with known gang members in the area.

Witnesses reported hearing gunshots and seeing a group flee the scene, but many potential witnesses were reluctant to cooperate because of fear of retaliation. Months after the killing several suspects were identified from witness statements and surveillance footage, though no immediate arrests were made. Later, new evidence led to the arrest and charging of two young men with first-degree murder; prosecutors said the shooting stemmed from a gang dispute and that Albert was an unintended target. The defendants were later convicted and received lengthy prison terms.

Albert’s family has been described as turned toward anti-violence advocacy in the aftermath. If anyone knew Albert, his movements that day, or has information about the shooting, please share what is known.