by P. J. McNeal, The Chicago Times
May 8, 2022
CHICAGO – Man shot mowing lawn on Mother’s Day in West Pullman was running to aid other victims has passed away.
According to police, Larry Purnell, 64, was in the middle of mowing a customer’s lawn in West Pullman when he heard gunshots ring out around 3pm. As any other decent civilized man would do, Purnell ran to see if anyone needed medical care.
As Purnell neared a home in the 11600 block of South Lowe Avenue, he was shot in the chest by gunman who had just murdered Brendon Slater, 26, and wounded another unnamed victim. Purnell was taken to Christ Medical Center and where he was later pronounced dead. Slater was shot multiple times and died on scene. It has been reported that Slater was picking up a Mother’s Day cake. The unnamed victim was shot in the leg and is listed in good condition.
According to police no suspects are in custody. Chief of Detectives Brendan Deenihan is asking for public help in bringing the gunman to justice. Perhaps one anonymous tip from someone with just an ounce of the courage Mr. Purnell had will help bring the killers to justice.
The Chicago Times 