Man shot by police multiple times in Englewood

CHICAGO (WLS) -- A 23-year-old man was shot multiple times by two police officers in Chicago's Englewood neighborhood. Police said the man had a gun, but some witnesses are disputing that claim.

Investigators said officers on patrol came upon a large crowd of people who were drinking and becoming "unruly" in the 5600-block of South Morgan Street around 1:40 a.m. Wednesday.

Nina Washington, the host of the party, said her family gets together every year to celebrate the life of her brother who died in a car accident three years ago. Washington and others said the gathering was calm.

"There was no hectic situations going on, there was no fighting, no crazy loud music, just sitting around enjoying my brother's life, celebrating his life," Washington said.

Witnesses said the cops approached the in a forceful manner, and a man named Kenny ran from them.

"I saw Kenny running and I saw two police officers shooting at him. I didn't see Kenny with a gun," said Kareen Noble, a witness.

Offices chased him, and that's when police said he pulled a gun on them. Two officers fired multiple rounds, injuring the man.

"There were so many people out here for them to shoot as many shots as they shot. Thank God no one else got hit," said Nina Washington, a witness.

Washington said she never saw a gun pointed at the officers. However, police said a gun was recovered at the scene.

The man was taken to Stroger Hospital in police custody, where he is in stable condition. His family said he was in surgery all afternoon.

Community activist Jedidiah Brown said the police went after the wrong people.

"These are great guys. They're not the troublemakers. These are the guys that no matter how they may look, they're builders, not people who tear down," Brown said.

As investigators remained on the scene, residents formed a prayer circle protesting what they say are calling police harassment. Residents protested again at the crime scene on Wednesday night.

Police said charges are pending against the 23-year-old man.