Harvey police officer injured in standoff honored for bravery

HARVEY, Ill. (WLS) -- The south suburban police officer shot during a 21-hour hostage standoff in Harvey last week was honored Monday night.

Lieutenant Darnell Keel pushed a fellow officer out of the way during an exchange of gunfire with the two suspects in that standoff. The 18-year veteran was shot in the arm.

On Tuesday he is being hailed for his bravery in saving the life of the rookie officer.

Harvey Mayor Eric Kellogg presented Officer Keel with a certificate of appreciation Monday night before the city council. Officer Keel talked about his encounter.

"I see nothing but gunfire, at which time, I pushed one of the rookies off the porch, I fired a few rounds back into it, I attempted to jump off the porch, and that's when I was struck," said Officer Keel.

Suspects David Jordan and Peter Williams are charged with several counts including attempted murder of a police officer, home invasion, and aggravated sexual assault.

Prosecutors say the men forced their way into the home, robbed the homeowner then held six children and two women hostage. One of those women was sexually assaulted several times.

Officer Keel underwent surgery last week at Christ Medical Center in Oak Lawn.

The suspects, David Jordan and Peter Williams, remain in jail. Their next court date is set for September 11.