Fundraiser Launched For Man Shot In Bucktown Attempted Carjacking

CHICAGO — A fundraiser has been launched for a man who was shot earlier this month in Bucktown. The 28-year-old man was working on his car in the 2000 block of North Hoyne Avenue, when four masked suspects went up to him and demanded his keys, police said. When he refused, one of the suspects shot him in the leg.

Kyle Garchar underwent surgery to repair his leg, according to a GoFundMe page set up by his friend, Jackie Birov.

"Kyle's girlfriend Ellen had to run outside and apply a tourniquet made from his belt," Birov said in the fundraising post. "This entire experience has been surreal and traumatizing."

"Doctors have not said when he can go home from the hospital, only that he will be in an exterior fixator cast and unable to walk for 8 weeks. We all know insurance does not cover all medical costs especially in a sudden and very expensive situation like this."

More than 200 people made donations over the past month, raising more than $9,000.

In a GoFundMe update, Garchar thanked all those who made donations, and Block Club Chicago, who first reported the story.

"I’m incredibly fortunate to have so many caring friends, family and neighbors in my life. I’m in complete and total awe by the amount of support I’ve received from everyone," Garchar said. "Words can’t express how much I appreciate the hundreds of texts, Facebook messages, tweets & letters from so many people. I never imagined so much good could come from such a horrible thing, and it’s because of all of you."

Garcher said he's still got "a long road ahead," but is expected to be able to walk again by early June.