A Chicago Police officer was killed and a second officer critically wounded Saturday morning after a prisoner being treated at Swedish Hospital opened fire, city officials said. The shooting took place around 10:50 a.m. in the Lincoln Square neighborhood.
The officer who died was 38 and a 10-year department veteran; a 57-year-old officer with 21 years of service was critically wounded and taken for treatment. Authorities did not immediately release their names.
Law enforcement sources told CBS News Chicago that the prisoner obtained a firearm while at the hospital and shot the officers. The suspect then fled to a residence several blocks away. SWAT teams surrounded the home, and the suspect was taken into custody after a standoff. Police said a third gun was recovered during the arrest.
Superintendent Larry Snelling said the suspect had been arrested earlier on suspicion of robbery and was brought to Swedish Hospital for observation prior to the shooting. Endeavor Health, which operates Swedish Hospital, said no patients or staff were injured and that the organization is cooperating with law enforcement.
Chicago Alderperson Andre Vasquez asked nearby residents to shelter in place while officers secured the scene. Snelling and Mayor Brandon Johnson described the shooting as a reminder of the risks officers face. Snelling called policing an extremely dangerous profession, and Mayor Johnson thanked the department and the city for supporting officers while saying the tragedy highlights the need for adequate services and resources for the police.
Gov. J.B. Pritzker said Illinois mourns the loss of the officer, prayed for the recovery of the critically injured officer, and thanked first responders. A procession for the fallen officer was held from Illinois Masonic Hospital to the Cook County Medical Examiner’s Office.