Chicago Man Indicted in Connection with West Loop Gas Station Shootout
A federal grand jury has indicted Marquist Evans, a 30-year-old man from Chicago, in connection with a shootout that took place at a West Loop gas station. The incident, which occurred on May 6 at a 7-Eleven on W. Grenshaw Street, was captured on camera and has since gained widespread attention.
Unlawful Possession of a Machine Gun
Evans has been charged with unlawful possession of a machine gun and ammunition. Prosecutors allege that Evans fired a machine gun in the direction of two gunmen involved in the shootout. The use of a machine gun in a public setting like a gas station raises serious concerns about public safety.
Armed Confrontation Escalates at 7-Eleven
The tense situation at the 7-Eleven quickly escalated as the two gunmen engaged in a shootout, exchanging gunfire in the parking lot. Evans, equipped with a handgun modified with a “Glock switch” for automatic firing, fired back at the opposing gunman who was armed with a rifle. The reckless use of firearms in a public space put bystanders at risk and could have resulted in tragic consequences.
Following the incident, Chicago police reported that the shootout started with a verbal altercation between the two men, which quickly turned violent. The brazen display of firearms at the gas station shocked onlookers and raised concerns about the prevalence of gun violence in the city.
7-Eleven owner Jonathan Nowak described the chaotic scene, stating that “One car was shooting another car from two pumps. Like wild Like the West, they shoot each other.” Fortunately, no one was injured in the exchange of gunfire, but the potential for harm was significant.
Marquist Evans is scheduled to stand trial on Thursday, August 10, facing serious charges related to the possession and use of a machine gun in a public setting. The outcome of the trial will shed light on the consequences of reckless gun violence and the need for stricter gun control measures to ensure public safety.
