As Lifeguard Who Shot Teens At Pool Resigns, Neighbors Want To Know Why Park District Hired Him

Lifeguard Charles Leto resigned from the Chicago Park District following his arrest for the fatal shooting of 15-year-old Marjay Dotson and the wounding of 14-year-old Jeremy Herred. He has been placed on the district’s “Do Not Rehire List. ” Neighbors have raised alarms about Leto's previous violent incidents, including a 2023 shooting of two dogs, leading to calls for accountability from the Park District. Community members rallied at Douglass Park, demanding permanent security and changes in hiring practices. The Park District stated it had begun the process of terminating Leto's employment before he resigned.

They also acknowledged receiving a petition from the Chi North Lawndale Chamber of Commerce, expressing a commitment to address community concerns. Leto's hiring process reportedly did not reveal any issues that would have prohibited his employment. The incident has sparked discussions about the safety and vetting of staff in public spaces, emphasizing the need for cultural competency training and thorough background checks.