Joseph W. Chess, 26, was shot to death on January 14, 2017, in Chicago’s Austin neighborhood. His killing occurred during a sharp rise in citywide gun violence: January 2017 recorded 51 homicides, the deadliest January in four years, amid increased gang conflicts and more gun-related violence.

The Chicago Police Department increased officers focused on violent crime, but the overall homicide rate remained high at the time. Joseph’s death is presented as part of that grim trend.

If anyone knew Joseph, saw activity in the Austin neighborhood around January 14, 2017, or has information about this shooting, please share what is known.