Investigation

FIRSTHAND: Gun Violence in Chicago

The number of people killed by guns in Chicago each month may fluctuate, but the psychological trauma in many neighborhoods is constant. How do wounded communities experience the violence, and how might they heal? In FIRSTHAND: Gun Violence, The Trace and WTTW explore lives affected by Chicago’s gun violence.

Community Violence

A Hidden Ingredient in Chicago’s Gun Violence: The Lack of Housing Options for At-Risk Young Men

“We know that wherever there is homelessness and housing insecurity, there is violence. So I think anybody who is concerned about crime in a city like Chicago should look at homelessness as a contributing factor.”
Nissa Rhee

Full Coverage

Lead Reporters

  • Brian Freskos

    Brian Freskos is a senior researcher and data analyst for the Conflict Awareness Project. He was previously a Chicago-based staff writer for The Trace, where he covered gun trafficking and community-based violence prevention.

  • Sarah Ryley

    Sarah Ryley was an investigative reporter for The Trace.

  • Arionne Nettles

    Arionne Nettles is a lecturer at Northwestern University’s Medill School of Journalism and the mother of a 14-year-old son.

  • Nissa Rhee

  • Dan Protess