Beloved chef Isaac ‘Wavy’ Bradley among killed in Chicago mass shooting

CHICAGO — Beloved South Side chef Isaac “Wavy” Bradley was one of two people killed in a mass shooting early Friday in Chicago’s Back of the Yards neighborhood, police said.

Bradley, 44, was standing with a group outside a home in the 5100 block of South Wood Street around 12:25 a.m. when two masked gunmen walked down the block and opened fire, according to police. Five others were wounded.

He was taken to the University of Chicago Medical Center, where he succumbed to his injuries.

Chef Known for His Restaurants and Community Influence

Bradley was a well‑known figure in Chicago’s dining scene and co‑owned several restaurants, including Chemistry Chicago, Stussy’s Diner, Soul Shack, Retro Grill and LiteHouse Whole Food Grill, Block Club Chicago reported.

Bradley had also worked as a barber and had gone to give a friend a haircut shortly before the shooting, according to Block Club Chicago.

Seven Shot, Two Killed in the Attack

Police said two suspects approached the group and opened fire without warning. Another man, 32‑year‑old Lamar Butler, was also killed.

Five others were injured, including a 23‑year‑old woman who was shot in the head and remains in critical condition. Four men and another woman were also hospitalized with gunshot wounds.

No arrests have been made, and detectives continue to investigate.

GoFundMe Created to Support Bradley’s Family

Following Bradley’s death, relatives and community members launched a GoFundMe to help cover funeral expenses and support his family. The fundraiser describes Bradley as a creative force whose food, mentorship and generosity shaped Chicago’s restaurant community.

The investigation is ongoing. Anyone with information can submit an anonymous tip by calling 1-800-535-7867 or online at CPDTIP.com.