CHICAGO (WLS) — The tight-knit community of a Woodlawn church is grappling with shock and sorrow after losing a cherished member. The tragedy has left friends and fellow congregants bewildered, as they struggle to comprehend the senseless violence that claimed the life of a woman known for her generosity and kindness.

Kiara Jenkins, remembered fondly by those who knew her, was a beacon of support and affection. At 36, she juggled the responsibilities of being a devoted mother to her five children while remaining deeply committed to her faith.

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Jenkins had been an integral part of the Mt. Bethlehem Missionary Baptist Church in Woodlawn for as long as anyone could recall. Her warm demeanor and readiness to lend a hand were hallmarks of her presence there, making her sudden loss all the more devastating for the church community.

According to Chicago police, the tragic incident occurred at approximately 4:30 a.m. on Sunday. Jenkins was discovered with multiple gunshot wounds in the alley behind her residence near 64th and Drexel. It is believed she was en route to the church’s regular 5 a.m. service, a commitment she rarely missed.

The grim news of Jenkins’ murder has reverberated throughout the neighborhood. Michael Adams, who recently moved into a home just a few doors down from Jenkins, expressed his shock. Although he didn’t know her personally, he recalls her as a friendly and welcoming presence in the community.

“It’s a tragic situation,” Adams said. “She just seemed like a nice lady. She spoke every time she saw us. She was coming and going, going to work, or whatever.”

Adams says his block was quiet in the morning when he left for church, but when he returned home in the afternoon, there was a heavy police presence. At this point, police do not have a suspect or a motive in this case.

“It was just chaos. They had everything wrapped up in tape everywhere, front and back,” Adams said.

Jenkins’ five children range from a freshman in college to 10 years old. The eldest child told ABC7 that the family is trying to be there for each other and process what happened.

Area One detectives are investigating.

Police did not immediately provide further information.

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