A professional boxer was found dead early Thursday in the Chatham neighborhood.
Michael Walker, 35, was found shot in a gangway in the 8200 block of South Drexel Avenue about 8:45 a.m., according to police, and later pronounced dead at a local hospital.
Walker's death was mourned by his colleagues at Sam Colonna's Gym, where he worked out.
"I felt like crying a tear 'cause walker was a good guy," fellow boxer Henry Coyle said.
Walker, who was nicknamed "The Night Stalker," turned pro in 2004 and went undefeated for four straight years. His next fight was scheduled for January.
"He was devastating as a fighter, really a good puncher and tough kid with a lot of heart. He had all the right tools a fighter needs," said Walker's trainer, Martin McGarry.
Friends say Walker had just walked his daughter to school when he was shot.
"He was a family man who took care of his mom and his daughter. That's all they had. It was senseless," the victim's friend, Mario Burns, said.
Friends say Walker had a troubled upbringing, but boxing saved him when he found a new home in the gym.
Police have no suspects in custody.
