Note: The video in the player above is from a previous report.
Eataly, the popular Italian market in downtown Chicago that was the site of a massive police presence Friday morning, will remain closed through Sunday as a police investigation into the incident continues.
The business announced it would remain closed until Sunday after a “verbal and physical altercation” involving three people led to the discharge of a firearm.
Eataly released the following statement:
“An unfortunate altercation occurred today between several individuals at our Chicago location. In response, we immediately notified law enforcement, and they were able to secure the situation. We understand that no individuals suffered significant injuries, however, the investigation is ongoing. Our location will remain closed until Sunday. We apologize for any inconvenience this may have caused to our valued community.
Chicago police confirmed Saturday that the incident was under “active investigation” with no further updates.
According to authorities, officers were called around 9:20 a.m. to Eataly, located at 43 E. Ohio St. There, they said a man was involved in a “verbal and physical altercation” with two other people inside the company.
During the altercation, the man pulled out a gun, which discharged during a struggle, police said.
No one was hit by the gunfire and the two people took the man’s gun and fled the scene before officers arrived, authorities said.
The man who initially possessed the gun was slightly injured during the fight, police said, but no other injuries were reported.
A heavy police presence was seen outside Eataly in the moments that followed, with road closures in the area as shoppers and customers reported a chaotic scene. However, sources told NBC Chicago that at least one person was arrested.
One customer told NBC Chicago that she saw people running out of the store while she was trying to get coffee.
One contract employee said he was told to “get the hell out of here, someone has a gun.” Another employee said an incident occurred on the second floor of the market, adding that the building was evacuated and “someone came to tell us it was an emergency and we needed to leave now”.
NBC Chicago reporter Lexi Sutter said she saw a person get into an ambulance. The scene appeared chaotic as bystanders and witnesses roamed the area, she said.
Traffic was seen backing up along Ohio as police blocked streets. Ohio Street was blocked near Wabash Avenue, according to traffic reports, citing “police activity.”
Later Friday, a sign was posted on Eataly’s doors saying the market would be closed for the rest of the day.
“Ciao Eatalians,” the sign said. “Eataly will be closed for the remainder of today (Friday, May 17, 2024). We apologize for any inconvenience.”
NBC Chicago
