Former Illinois Mayor’s Father Shot, Sparks Call for Federal Intervention
The father of former Illinois mayor Tiffany Henyard, a figure who has garnered significant public attention and criticism, has been the victim of a shooting in Chicago. The incident has prompted Henyard, infamously dubbed “America’s worst mayor,” to publicly appeal for federal assistance to combat escalating violence.
Henyard confirmed the distressing news via social media, stating that her father, Ronald, was shot in the neck. In a statement shared on Facebook, she expressed her profound sadness at having to address the incident, describing her father as an “innocent victim of this random and heartbreaking violence.”
The 65-year-old was reportedly shot around 5:54 pm on Wednesday in an alley located in the 1300 block of South Kedzie Avenue, within Chicago’s North Lawndale neighbourhood. He was immediately transported to Mount Sinai Hospital, where his condition is currently listed as serious. Authorities have confirmed that no arrests have been made, and detectives are actively investigating the case.
Henyard conveyed her grief, writing, “My heart is heavy. Keep my family in your prayers.” In a more extensive message, signed as “Super Mayor Tiffany A. Henyard,” she elaborated on the impact of the shooting, stating, “This tragedy has shaken my family to its core and unfortunately it reflects a reality that too many families across our state are facing.”
She emphasised that the shooting “further highlights what many of us already know” about the pervasive issue of gun violence in Chicago, issuing a strong call for “stronger action and meaningful solutions.”
A Plea for Federal Assistance
In her appeal, Henyard directly urged Illinois Governor JB Pritzker and Chicago Mayor Brandon Johnson to “seriously reconsider federal assistance” from President Donald J. Trump. She pointed to other communities that have reportedly seen “measurable reductions in crime” after embracing federal support, citing Memphis, Washington, D.C., and New Orleans as examples.
Henyard asserted that residents of Illinois “deserve to feel safe in their homes and neighborhoods” and argued that increased collaboration among leaders has “produced results” in other areas. This call for federal intervention represents a notable shift in her political stance.
Shifting Political Landscape
Henyard, formerly a Democrat, is now campaigning as a Republican in Georgia following her departure from Illinois politics. She served as the mayor of Dolton from 2021 to 2025, concurrently holding the position of Thornton Township supervisor, where she adopted the moniker “super mayor.”
Current Dolton Mayor Jason House has expressed his sadness regarding the shooting and offered his condolences and support to Henyard’s family.
A Trail of Controversy
The shooting occurs amidst a backdrop of numerous controversies that have surrounded Henyard’s tenure. She has faced accusations of financial mismanagement, including allegations of squandering millions in taxpayer funds and incurring substantial personal expenses on town credit cards. During her leadership, the village of Dolton reportedly transitioned from a financial surplus to a deficit.
Henyard’s re-election bid earlier this year ended in a significant defeat, where she garnered just over 12 percent of the vote, following a contentious council meeting that reportedly devolved into a physical altercation.
National Scrutiny and Political Rebranding
Henyard first gained widespread national attention in 2024 when officials within her administration were served subpoenas by the FBI. These subpoenas were reportedly part of an investigation into alleged corruption related to city spending and travel. While she was never formally charged, the probe cast a shadow over her leadership.
Her time in office was characterised by frequent confrontations with critics and persistent allegations of misconduct, contributing to a national reputation for a combative leadership style. Since leaving her mayoral position, Henyard has embarked on a political rebrand, switching party affiliation and aligning herself with former President Donald J. Trump as she launches a new campaign in Georgia.
The Daily Mail has reached out to Henyard for further comment on this developing situation.
