Chicago police brace for potentially violent holiday weekend

Chicago police are bracing for a hot and potentially violent holiday weekend.

They have been conducting what they call "precision raids" -- arresting suspects in gang-related crimes and they are adding thousands of officers to patrol the streets.

Police are already working Friday to solve at least one shooting.

When the sound of gunshots crackled through the Lawndale neighborhood, students at a nearby elementary school were left with no choice. Kids, like 12-year-old Herbert, hit the ground for cover.

“I feel not safe. It's unbelievable,” he said. “I really want to move. It's bad around here.”

Police and city leaders say tools like the "Intelligence Center" help the fight against crime, bringing together multiple technologies.

Early Friday, police announced a raid they say targeted gangs, executing seven search warrants and making 71 arrests.

Mayor Rahm Emanuel and police superintendent Eddie Johnson joined members of the bronze Ville community for a night of faith and action, reiterating their commitment to safety this weekend.

Police did say they recovered multiple weapons in that earlier shooting and took three men into custody.

Additionally, they say they will be working with federal partners throughout the weekend to fight any surges in violence.