COOK COUNTY CRIMINAL COURTHOUSE — Bail was set at $2 million Thursday for the Washington Park woman accused of shooting two 16-year-old boys at 31st Street Beach last month.
Tynisha Blissit, 18, is charged with attempted first-degree murder and aggravated battery. If convicted, she could face life in prison, Assistant State's Attorney Erin Antonietti said during a bond hearing Thursday.
According to Antonietti, Blissit and two friends were at the "crowded" South Side beach in the 3100 block of South Lake Shore Drive about 6:45 p.m. June 11, when the friends got into a fight with two 16-year-old boys.
Blissit pulled a gun and began firing toward the boys — striking one in his groin and lip and the other in his neck, abdomen and ankle, prosecutors said. That victim was hospitalized for nine days.
Police on the scene found two .40 caliber shell casings and one fired bullet, Antonietti said.
Blissit, of the 5900 block of South Indiana Avenue, has no prior criminal history. She is a high school student who has worked at a factory for the past two months, her public defender said in court Thursday.
Cook County Judge Donald Panarese Jr. set bail at $2 million.
After the shooting, Ald. Sophia King (4th) said it was an example of the senseless violence causing unrest in the city.
"Traditionally, the summer represents a time for outdoor enjoyment of warm weather and friends; however, given the ongoing episodes of violence, families and children are left to question is any place safe," King said. "As concerned community members, we need to work collectively to create alternatives to violence, partner with law enforcement to safeguard our streets and stand against the perpetrators of violence."
