Javanti Smith, 40, was fatally shot in Chicago’s Old Town neighborhood in the early hours of Tuesday, July 7, 2026. The shooting happened about 2:10 a.m. in the 400 block of West Evergreen Avenue near Sedgwick Street. Responding officers found Smith with multiple gunshot wounds; he was taken to Northwestern Memorial Hospital and later pronounced dead. The Cook County medical examiner’s office confirmed his identity.

Family and friends say Smith grew up in nearby Cabrini-Green and, after previous legal trouble that included serving time on drug possession charges, devoted himself to anti-violence outreach. A father of four, he worked with local peace initiatives such as No Kids Die in the Chi and mentored young people. Loved ones described him as compassionate, energetic and determined.

Chicago police are actively investigating, reviewing surveillance footage and interviewing potential witnesses; no suspects or motive have been publicly identified and no arrests have been announced. If anyone who knew Javanti or who has information about the shooting can help, please come forward.