Chicago Local Headlines: Weekend Violence, Early Voting Expansion, Pulaski Day Closures

Top local headlines for Monday

Chicago police reported at least four people killed and 14 others injured in shootings from Friday evening through Sunday night, spanning multiple neighborhoods. Investigations were ongoing Monday, with detectives asking witnesses to come forward as the city heads into a busy early-March stretch.

Weekend violence update

The latest tally includes victims ranging in age from teens to older adults, with several people struck in separate incidents over a few hours. Police have emphasized that details can change as reports are updated, and they urged anyone with information, videos, or tips to share them with investigators.

Early voting expands citywide today

With the Illinois primary set for March 17, early voting is widening access across Chicago on March 2, adding sites in all 50 wards. Downtown locations have already been operating, but the ward rollout is expected to cut down on travel time for many voters and reduce congestion at the central sites.

Election officials are also reminding residents that vote-by-mail remains available, and that voters should verify polling details before heading out, since locations and hours can vary by site.

Pulaski Day closures and what stays open

Monday is Casimir Pulaski Day in Chicago, which typically brings a split schedule across the region. City and county government offices and courts are closed, and Chicago Public Library branches are also closed, while many schools and most private businesses keep regular hours. Transit runs on a normal weekday schedule.

Polar Plunge draws crowds to North Avenue Beach

Hundreds of costumed plungers braved Lake Michigan Sunday morning for the annual Polar Plunge fundraiser benefiting Special Olympics Illinois. Organizers said the event continues to be a major winter tradition, pairing a quick dip with a big community turnout and fundraising goals that have climbed in recent years.

Sources

• https://www.cbsnews.com/amp/chicago/news/chicago-weekend-shootings-feb-27-to-march-2/
• https://www.nbcchicago.com/news/local/chicago-politics/illinois-primary-election-early-voting-set-to-expand-this-week/3901636/
• https://chicago.suntimes.com/chicago/pulaski-day-chicago-history-parade-school-off
• https://www.nbcchicago.com/news/local/nbc-chicagos-matt-rodrigues-gets-dropped-into-the-dunk-tank-in-honor-of-polar-plunge-chicago/3900975/