A homicide investigation is underway following the discovery of Barbara Deer and her son Kaleb, who were tragically shot in their home in Chicago.
The victims, found in the East Garfield Park neighborhood, were reported deceased after a family friend responded to a concerning notification received by Kaleb’s twin brother, Kanaan. With the front door dead-bolted, the friend was unable to enter, sparking immediate concern.
Police were alerted shortly before 6 p.m., and upon arrival, they discovered the family’s car parked in the rear and an unusual commotion from the dog outside.
Upon forcing entry, they found both victims in the basement, with Barbara having suffered three gunshot wounds and Kaleb a single fatal shot. They were declared dead shortly after officers arrived.
Evidence at the scene included multiple cartridge cases and a handgun near Kaleb’s hand, with no signs indicating forced entry.
The Chicago Police Department is treating the incident as a double homicide. Further details regarding potential suspects are yet to be disclosed.
Cook County Board President Toni Preckwinkle expressed her condolences, highlighting the Deer family’s significant impact on the community through their service and compassion. Their loss is felt deeply by those who knew them.
MOTHER & SON KILLED!! 💥💥
23-yr-old Kaleb Deer & 51-yr-old Barbara Deer, has both been identified as the Widow & son of former Cook County Commissioner Dennis Deer, that was found shot to death in their west side home last night 🕊️🕯️💐⛅️✝️
On Tuesday April 14th, 2026, around… https://t.co/LRlC0VVRBq pic.twitter.com/CsyWCuAmnR
— Chitown_Crime_Chasers (@CCC_CrimeChaser) April 15, 2026
Dennis Deer, Barbara’s late husband, served as Cook County Commissioner for the 2nd district until his passing in 2024, following a health battle. His legacy in public service and community engagement remains influential.
Before entering politics, he dedicated his career to operating a drug treatment center in North Lawndale. Dennis’s fight with a genetic condition culminated in a double lung transplant in 2023, a year before his untimely death.
