With broken hearts and deep sorrow, we remember Gabryel Gnia Ayres, lovingly known as “Gabby,” whose life was tragically taken far too soon. At just 26 years old, Gabby was a young woman with a future still unfolding—one filled with love, responsibility, and the powerful bond of motherhood. Her passing has shaken her family, friends, and the entire community, leaving behind grief that words can barely hold.
On Wednesday, February 4, 2026, at approximately 1:25 p.m., Chicago Police responded to reports of a person shot followed by a vehicle crash near 79th Street and May Street. When officers arrived, they found Gabby in the passenger seat of a white vehicle, suffering from multiple gunshot wounds. She was rushed to LCM Hospital, where she was heartbreakingly pronounced deceased.
A 27-year-old man was also found in the driver’s seat with gunshot wounds and was listed in good condition. Most miraculously—and painfully—Gabby’s baby was found in the back seat, unharmed and untouched by the gunfire. That child’s survival is both a blessing and a reminder of the life Gabby leaves behind—a life she loved fiercely and protected with everything she had.
According to Chicago Police, Gabby and the male victim were driving when four offenders in a red SUV pulled up behind them, exited their vehicle, and opened fire. As the victims attempted to escape, they crashed into a van. The suspects fled but reportedly fired additional shots before leaving the scene. No arrests have been made at this time, and Area Detectives continue to investigate.
As disturbing videos circulate online, it’s important to remember that behind every clip and headline is a real woman, a real family, and a real child who will grow up without their mother. Gabby was not just a statistic. She was someone’s daughter, someone’s friend, and a devoted mother whose love will forever live on through her child.
This senseless act of violence has left an unfillable void. The pain is raw. The questions are endless. And the loss is immeasurable. As a community, we mourn Gabby’s life and cry out for an end to the violence that continues to steal futures and devastate families.
Please continue to lift Gabby’s family in prayer, asking for strength, comfort, and peace during this unimaginable time. May God wrap His arms around her child, her loved ones, and all who are grieving, and may justice be served.
Rest peacefully, Gabby.
You are gone from this world, but never from our hearts.
Your light, your love, and your legacy will not be forgotten.