A tragic incident has left a Chicago community in mourning following the deaths of Barbara Deer, 51, and her son, Kaleb Deer, 23. The Cook County Board of Commissioners confirmed the deaths on Tuesday night.
A Second Loss for the Deer Family
The deaths of Barbara and Kaleb Deer come less than two years after the passing of Barbara and Kaleb’s father, Dennis Deer, who died in June 2024 from complications following a double lung transplant. Dennis Deer had served as Cook County Commissioner for the 2nd district since 2017.
Authorities determined the deaths to be a murder-suicide. Barbara Deer was found shot three times, while Kaleb Deer sustained a single gunshot wound to the head, according to Chicago police and the Cook County Medical Examiner’s Office.
Community Response
The tragedy has prompted an outpouring of grief and support from local leaders and community members. Illinois Governor JB Pritzker offered condolences to the Deer family. Cook County Board Commissioners and the Chicago City Council paused for a moment of silence on Wednesday.
Neighbors described Barbara Deer as a pillar of the North Lawndale community, noting her active involvement and dedication to local initiatives. She was the executive director of Juneteenth Illinois and had organized a community walk scheduled for Wednesday evening, which neighbors attended in her honor despite her passing.
Barbara Deer was also remembered for her involvement in her AKA sorority and for recently becoming a grandmother to a baby girl. The Deer family has two other surviving children: Kaleb’s twin brother and a daughter.
Frequently Asked Questions
What happened to Barbara and Kaleb Deer?
Barbara and Kaleb Deer were found shot in their home on Tuesday evening. The Cook County Medical Examiner’s Office determined the incident to be a murder-suicide.
Who was Dennis Deer?
Dennis Deer was the Cook County Commissioner for the 2nd district, serving from 2017 until his death in June 2024 due to complications from a double lung transplant.
How is the community responding to this tragedy?
Neighbors and local leaders have expressed their grief and offered condolences to the Deer family. A moment of silence was held by the Cook County Board of Commissioners and the Chicago City Council. Neighbors also gathered to honor Barbara Deer and continue a community walk she had organized.
As the community grapples with this devastating loss, what role can neighbors and local organizations play in supporting the surviving members of the Deer family and fostering healing within North Lawndale?
Related reading