Chicago mother killed in Bourbon Street crossfire during birthday weekend

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A Chicago family’s birthday getaway turned into heartbreak when gunfire erupted on Bourbon Street, killing 33-year-old Jessica Williams and wounding her sister. The shooting occurred early Sunday, Sept. 28, just hours after Williams celebrated her birthday.

Details: Chicago mother killed on Bourbon Street during birthday weekend

New Orleans Police arrested two suspects and announced the charges Tuesday. Detectives say the men exchanged gunfire, striking Williams and her sister as the women walked back to their hotel.

“I want to know why,” said Williams’ grieving mother to WVUE. “I brought my baby out of town for her to lose her life walking back to the hotel room.”

Williams’ mother was in New Orleans with both daughters and other relatives. Her surviving daughter remains hospitalized.

Family is trying to deal with the tragedy

Williams leaves behind two children: a 7-year-old daughter and a 4-year-old son. The family is now grappling with unimaginable loss and the challenge of raising her children without their mother.

“I said something bad happened to her mother, that she was shot, and she won’t be back home,” Williams’ mother told the outlet. “But I’ll make sure I take care of her and love her like her mother do.”

Her granddaughter broke down, asking through tears, “Why he took my mama?”

Her family hopes her story will bring attention to the dangers of gun violence in public spaces.

GoFundMe campaign created to support children

A GoFundMe campaign has been launched to support Williams’ children. Organizers say all donations will go directly to the family to help with living expenses and long-term care.

“She didn’t deserve this,” relatives said. “She was loving, joyful, and full of life.”

Police continue to investigate the shooting.

The learn more or donate, you can reach the GoFundMe campaign here.