CHICAGO, IL – A Chicago police officer was shot during a dramatic encounter with a gunman following a smash-and-grab burglary at a Gold Coast store on Monday. According to Chicago Police Supt. Larry Snelling, the incident occurred around 4:15 a.m. when an individual attempted to drive a Dodge Durango into the Prada store at 30 E. Oak St. The officer was shot in the leg and taken to Northwestern Memorial Hospital, while the 33-year-old suspect was struck multiple times and also hospitalized. The suspect, who has a lengthy criminal record and is wanted by federal authorities, was found with two handguns with extended magazines, one of which was equipped with a so-called switch that effectively turned it into a machine gun.
The suspect’s criminal history includes numerous arrests dating back to at least 2007, with charges ranging from burglary to attempted murder. Police have stated their intention to charge him with a list of felonies, including two counts of attempted murder. The suspect is also wanted on a warrant issued by the U.S. Marshals in a gun case. This incident follows a previous burglary at the Prada store over the summer and a high-profile shooting in 2020 that claimed the life of rapper FBG Duck.
In light of the recent events, a meeting to discuss increasing security measures in the area had been scheduled for Monday, reflecting growing concerns within the community. Families and residents have expressed shock and concern over the escalating violence and criminal activity in the area, with one long-time resident remarking, “It’s a different world. It’s a different city, I just don’t get it.”
The incident is under further investigation, with the Civilian Office of Police Accountability also involved. No arrests have been reported as of yet. As the community grapples with the aftermath of this violence, there are growing calls for additional security measures and increased vigilance.