A 36-year-old woman lost her life early Sunday morning in a senseless shooting on Chicago’s South Side.
Police identified the victim as Kiara Jenkins, a devoted mother of five children.
The shooting happened around 4:30 a.m. on January 18, 2026, near 64th and Drexel.
Chicago Police arrived at the scene to find Kiara lying outside her car near an alley.
She had been shot multiple times and was pronounced dead at the scene.
Investigators say Kiara was getting into her car to attend an early morning prayer service at her church.
An unknown person approached her and opened fire before fleeing the area.
Family members describe Kiara as a “faithful woman of God” who dedicated her life to her faith and her family.
The tragedy comes just one week before her 37th birthday.
The loss has left the Mount Bethlehem Church community completely devastated.
“This hurt our church so bad; we all have a broken heart right now,” one church member shared.
“We lost a good one… God, please wrap your arms around everyone in our church because we’re gonna need it,” the member added.
Friends described Kiara as “one of God’s angels” and a “lovely person” who was truly loved by her congregation.
Another close loved one, who called Kiara her “Sister Wife,” expressed deep grief over the loss.
“Now, I’m crying my eyes out; I love you Kiara, and truly going to miss you,” she shared.
“Baby we celebrate you, because you loved God, and you are a BETHLEHEMITE INDEED. PERIODT!!!”
No suspects are currently in custody, and Area 1 detectives are leading the investigation.
Anyone with information can submit an anonymous tip at CPDTIP.COM.
You can also contact the Chicago Police 3rd District at (312) 747-8201.
The community is asked to keep Kiara’s children and church family in their prayers during this difficult time.
