The Chicago community is reeling from the tragic murder of 34-year-old Ebony Hill, a mother and beloved figure in her neighborhood. Ebony was brutally killed in the early hours of Friday, July 13, 2024, in the West Garfield Park area. LaDerek Quez Townes has been identified as the primary suspect in her murder. Friends and family report that Ebony was last seen with Townes during a double date, and witnesses say they argued intensely moments before the fatal shooting.
The Chicago Police Department responded to a call of shots fired around 2 a.m. in the 200 block of South Kostner Avenue. When officers arrived at the scene, they found Ebony Hill with a gunshot wound to the head. Despite the swift response and immediate transport to Stroger Hospital, Ebony was pronounced dead at 2:42 a.m.
Ebony Hill: A Life Cut Short
Ebony Hill was a 34-year-old mother, remembered by those who knew her as a loving, vibrant, and dedicated individual. She was deeply involved in her community and worked tirelessly to provide for her children. Her untimely death has left a void that resonates far beyond her immediate family, affecting friends, neighbors, and colleagues.
Ebony’s family is devastated by the loss. Her mother, Linda Hill, expressed the pain of losing her daughter: “Ebony was my world. She was a wonderful mother and a caring friend to everyone who knew her. This senseless act of violence has taken her away from us, and our hearts are broken.”
The Suspect: LaDerek Quez Townes
LaDerek Quez Townes, known to some as Quez, has been identified as the suspect in Ebony Hill’s murder. Townes was reportedly seen with Ebony on the night of her death. According to witnesses, the two were on a double date when an intense argument broke out between them. The nature of the argument is still under investigation, but it escalated quickly, culminating in the tragic shooting.
Townes has a history with the law, including prior arrests for minor offenses, but nothing in his past suggested he was capable of such a violent act. Neighbors and acquaintances described him as a somewhat troubled individual but were shocked to hear of his involvement in a murder. “I never thought Quez would do something like this,” said a neighbor who wished to remain anonymous. “He had his issues, but this is beyond comprehension.”
The crime scene in the 200 block of South Kostner Avenue was chaotic in the early hours of July 13. Police cordoned off the area as they began their investigation, gathering evidence and speaking to witnesses. The normally quiet street was disrupted by the flashing lights of police cars and the sobering reality of a life taken too soon.
Witnesses reported hearing a loud argument between Ebony and Townes just before the gunshots rang out. “I heard them yelling,” said a resident who lives nearby. “It sounded serious, and then there were gunshots. I called 911 immediately.”
The Chicago Police Department has launched a full-scale investigation into the murder of Ebony Hill. Detectives are piecing together the events leading up to the shooting, interviewing witnesses, and reviewing surveillance footage from nearby cameras. The focus of the investigation is on LaDerek Quez Townes, who is currently at large.
Police have issued a warrant for Townes’ arrest and are appealing to the public for any information that could lead to his capture. “We are doing everything in our power to bring the perpetrator of this heinous crime to justice,” said Chicago Police Superintendent David Brown. “We urge anyone with information to come forward.”
The West Garfield Park community is grappling with the shock and grief of Ebony Hill’s murder. Vigils have been held in her honor, and her death has sparked conversations about violence and safety in the neighborhood. Community leaders are calling for increased efforts to address the root causes of such violence and provide better support for residents.
“Ebony’s death is a tragedy that highlights the urgent need for action in our community,” said local activist Marcus Green. “We need more resources, more support, and more intervention to prevent these senseless acts of violence.”
Friends and family are remembering Ebony Hill as a loving mother and a dedicated member of her community. She worked as a nurse’s aide, a job she loved because it allowed her to care for others. Her colleagues remember her as a compassionate and hardworking individual who brought joy and comfort to her patients.
“Ebony was a bright light in our lives,” said her coworker, Jessica Martinez. “She had a heart of gold and was always willing to help anyone in need. Her absence is deeply felt by all of us who had the privilege of knowing her.”
As the investigation continues, the search for LaDerek Quez Townes remains a top priority for law enforcement. Authorities believe he may still be in the Chicago area and are urging anyone with information to contact the Chicago Police Department. A reward has been offered for information leading to his arrest.
The family of Ebony Hill is also calling for justice. “We want to see the person responsible for this brought to justice,” said Linda Hill. “Ebony deserves that, and so do her children. We need to make sure this doesn’t happen to another family.”
The murder of Ebony Hill is a stark reminder of the senseless violence that can shatter lives and communities. As the West Garfield Park neighborhood mourns her loss, there is a collective call for justice and a renewed commitment to preventing such tragedies in the future.
Ebony Hill’s legacy will be one of love, compassion, and dedication. Her memory will live on in the hearts of those who knew and loved her, and the community will continue to seek justice in her name. The search for LaDerek Quez Townes is ongoing, and authorities remain hopeful that he will be apprehended and held accountable for his actions.
