Chicago Man Charged in Killing of Violence Prevention Leader

On November 9, Alex D. Morris, 54, faced a first-degree murder charge over the fatal shooting of Andre M. Thomas, a violence prevention leader who was killed outside his Chicago Heights office on Halloween. Morris, who is from Chicago, was arrested there on November 6 and is expected to appear for a detention hearing in Markham on November 10.

Police said officers went to the 400 block of West 14th Street at about 9:24 p.m. on October 31 after a gunfire alert. They found Thomas with multiple gunshot wounds and took him to a hospital, where he was pronounced dead. The medical examiner ruled his death a homicide.

Investigators identified Morris among several people of interest during the first week of the inquiry. Police said they would not release details about the other people or the investigation while it remains underway.

Thomas founded Integrity & Fidelity in 2021 to help communities in Chicago and the south suburbs resolve conflicts, respond to street disputes and connect residents with support. He had previously worked with violence prevention organizations, including Ceasefire, after rebuilding his life following time in prison.

Thomas’ partner, Nita Ragland, said he took pride in his work. His family said he handed out Halloween candy before going to his office, where he was waiting for colleagues when he was shot. Ragland said she hoped people Thomas mentored would continue his efforts to save lives.