CHICAGO, IL — A 46-year-old man is in critical condition following a shooting that occurred in the Cragin neighborhood early Tuesday morning. The incident, which took place around 2:25 a.m. in the 5200 block of West Fullerton Avenue, involved a concealed carry license (CCL) holder.

According to Chicago police, the shooting happened after an altercation between the two men escalated. During the dispute, the CCL holder drew his firearm and fired a shot, striking the 46-year-old man in the chest. The injured man was rushed to Mt. Sinai Hospital, where he remains in critical condition.

The shooter, who is licensed to carry a concealed weapon, has been taken into custody. Area Five detectives are currently investigating the circumstances that led to the shooting to determine whether the use of lethal force was justified under the law.

As the investigation continues, this incident serves as a sobering reminder of the responsibility that comes with carrying a concealed weapon.

For those who carry, it’s crucial to remember that the decision to draw a firearm should never be taken lightly. Situations that stem from arguments or disputes rarely justify the use of lethal force. Concealed carry holders must keep their egos in check and understand that using a firearm in a situation where there is no immediate threat to life can have severe legal and moral consequences.

In this case, what might have started as a simple disagreement escalated to a critical incident that could have been avoided. As concealed carriers, we must always prioritize de-escalation and avoid letting pride or anger cloud our judgment. Remember, carrying a firearm is not just a right but a responsibility—one that requires us to act with the highest level of restraint and respect for the law.