Mason J. Smith was 22 when he was fatally shot on December 3, 2013, in Chicago, Illinois. His death occurred amid an especially violent year for the city, when gunfire and homicide numbers were elevated and many neighborhoods—particularly on the South and West Sides—were hard hit.

The broader context noted at the time ties much of the violence to ongoing gang conflicts, concentrated disadvantage, and strained community-police relations that hampered investigations and witness cooperation. Mason Smith’s killing became one of many tragic fatalities that year and underscores the continuing efforts then underway to address poverty, inequality, and lack of opportunity as part of any long-term response.

If anyone knew Mason Smith or has information about the December 3, 2013 shooting, please share what is known.