The community of Washington Heights is mourning the tragic loss of Phyllis Goolsby, who died at the age of 68 on March 7, 2026. Authorities say her death followed a devastating incident in Chicago that has left family, friends, and neighbors grieving the sudden and heartbreaking loss.
According to the Chicago Police Department, officers responded shortly before 11 p.m. to a residence in the 10400 block of South Peoria Street after receiving reports of gunfire. When police arrived, they found two women inside the home suffering from severe injuries. Despite the rapid response and efforts of emergency personnel, both women were pronounced dead at the scene.
The Cook County Medical Examiner’s Office later identified one of the victims as Phyllis Goolsby. Authorities confirmed that her death was a homicide. The second victim, a 71-year-old woman, also died in the incident, though her identity had not been publicly released at the time of the report.
Police officials stated that a 75-year-old man was taken into custody at the residence in connection with the shooting. Investigators also recovered a weapon at the scene. Authorities have emphasized that the investigation is ongoing, and detectives continue reviewing evidence and interviewing witnesses to determine the full circumstances surrounding the fatal incident.
While details of the case remain limited, friends and neighbors remember Phyllis Goolsby as a valued member of the Washington Heights community. Those who knew her described her as someone who maintained strong connections with family, friends, and neighbors, leaving a lasting impression through her kindness and presence.
The tragic event has left the community grappling with grief while also reflecting on the fragility of life. Loved ones are mourning Phyllis Goolsby’s passing and honoring the life she lived, remembering the moments she shared with those around her. As the investigation continues, the Chicago Police Department has urged anyone with information about the incident to come forward to assist authorities in understanding what led to this devastating loss.
