A Chicago police officer has been killed and another critically injured in a shooting at a hospital on Saturday morning, according to Chicago Police Superintendent Larry Snelling. The incident occurred at Endeavor Health Swedish Hospital, where the suspect, who was already in custody for a suspected robbery, opened fire on officers.
The suspect, who has not been publicly named, was taken to the hospital for treatment and was 'wanded upon arrival' for weapon detection, the hospital said in a social media post. Despite this, the individual managed to obtain a firearm and shot the officers before fleeing the building. He was later apprehended.
Authorities have not disclosed how the suspect acquired the weapon, citing the ongoing investigation. Superintendent Snelling expressed condolences for the fallen officer, stating, 'The loss of life – the senseless loss of life of an officer who was out attempting to protect the city.'
The officers have not been publicly identified, but NBC News reported that one officer was shot in the head. The hospital remained on lockdown as of Saturday afternoon. Alderman Gilbert Villegas thanked the police for their quick response, while Illinois State Police Director Brendan Kelly offered prayers for the injured officer.
