Robert L. McNear, 35, of Chicago, Illinois, was fatally shot on May 28, 2012. His death is described as part of the sharp surge in gun violence that citywide recording showed in 2012, when Chicago logged more than 500 homicides.

The account places McNear’s killing within the pattern of shootings concentrated on the South and West Sides, areas portrayed as affected by poverty, gang activity, and disputes or retaliation.

McNear’s homicide is presented as one of many that underscored calls for reforms and more effective community policing in Chicago. If anyone knew Robert McNear or has information about his killing, please come forward.