The family of a veteran who was shot and killed while working as a Chicago hookah lounge bouncer laments, “He was my hero.”

Today, the Austin McAllister’s family spoke out. They are in utter devastation.

The 38-year-old was killed here on New Year’s Eve while working as a bouncer at the Lyon’s Den Hookah Lounge and simply attempting to make a living honestly.

The family of 38-year-old McAllister spent the first day of 2023 weeping over the loss of their cherished brother.

A six-time veteran, personal trainer, and devoted father.

“He got hurt in Iraq to come home to Chicago and be killed, because he turned a patron away from the hookah lounge? He wasn’t out there partying. He wasn’t drinking. He was out there working for his kids and for himself,” said Denotra Allen, the victim’s sister.

Around 1:30 a.m. on New Year’s Eve, Austin was working as a bouncer at the Lyon’s Den Hookah Lounge when, according to Chicago police, a suspect attempted to enter the bar with a gun.

There was a gunfire exchange. Austin was shot multiple times before passing away in the hospital.

“I found him to be an exceptional individual. He was my hero and someone I spent considerable time with. Someone who gave me genuine strength and encouragement and who believed in me “Alan McAllister, the twin brother of the victim, stated. We are simply attempting to hold together and remain strong.

Alan observed Austin earlier that day, just prior to his death. Now, wrapped in his brother’s coat and wearing his necklace, he clings to what remains of him.

“I just want to tell you, brother. I love you, and I respect you, and I can’t wait to see you again,” Alan said.

Alan is also a veteran, and Denotra is a former Chicago police officer who is now retired. This is a family of individuals who have devoted their lives to service.

Denotra stated, “He was at a job, protecting other people while they were enjoying themselves,”

Austin passed away on the same day as their mother one year ago. The family is hopeful that police will identify the perpetrator.

“We got to stop allowing this to be OK. We’ve got to stop letting the next story come two minutes later or three minutes later. We’ve got young children out here. We need people to care,” Denotra said.

No arrests have been made to date. The suspect fled in a vehicle after the shooting.