CPD employee killed in Morgan Park shooting

CHICAGO (WLS) -- A civilian employee of the Chicago Police Department was shot and killed in the city's Morgan Park neighborhood.

John Buckner's daughter said he was unloading groceries from his brand new Dodge Charger with his wife and 11-year-old grandson in the 11500-block of South Church Street around 8:45 p.m. Wednesday. Police said that's when three teenagers rode up on bikes and opened fire before riding away.

Buckner, 59, was shot in the abdomen. A 41-year-old man who was standing on a porch nearby was also wounded in the shooting. Buckner's wife and grandson were not injured.

They were both taken to Advocate Christ Medical Center. The younger man was listed in serious condition. Buckner was pronounced dead at 10:25 p.m., authorities said.

CPD officials said Buckner was with the agency for 25 years. He worked in the equipment and supply section. He became a supervisor three years ago.

LaKeshia Buckner-Smith said her father lived in Morgan Park for 20 years.

"They just came from a wedding this weekend. They had such a good time seeing old friends and things. It's just amazing how life turns in an instant," Buckner-Smith said.

Tyrone Wilson, who lives next door, said he heard gunshots and a commotion outside Wednesday night.

"Knowing someone would come and do something like that to him. No, that's something that wouldn't happen. That was strange," Wilson said.

Chicago police called Buckner's death a senseless tragedy, which they are investigating aggressively.

Area South police are searching for the three teens on bikes, but did not provide a more detailed description.