Chicago shooting: COPA investigating after police officer, suspect shot in Englewood
Offender critically wounded, officer in serious, but stable condition, CPD Supt. David Brown says
CHICAGO (WLS) -- COPA is investigating after a Chicago Police Department officer and an offender were shot Sunday afternoon on the city's South Side, CPD said.
The shooting happened during a traffic stop at about 2:00 p.m. in the Englewood neighborhood near West 69th Street and South Sangamon Street, police said.
Three uniformed officers in an unmarked vehicle tried to pull over a suspect, who then pulled into a dead-end alley, CPD Supt. David Brown said during a press conference. The offender emerged from the car and began firing shots at the officers, who returned gunfire.
WATCH: CPD Supt. David Brown provides update on police-involved shootout
The officer's partner rushed him to the hospital, ditching their unmarked vehicle at East 57th Street and South Cottage Grove Avenue, steps away from the emergency room. The officer was struck in the arm and torso and was reported in serious, but stable condition.
The offender was also shot and transported to Christ Hospital in critical condition.
The police department is looking into body camera video of the incident and the officers involved will be placed on routine administrative duties for 30 days as COPA investigates.
SEE ALSO | 2 suspects at large after Chicago police officer injured in West Englewood shooting
Investigators released a photo of the alleged offender's weapon, which they said he used to fire at the group of officers.
Brown said he was able to speak with the officer who was shot before talking about the dangers his officers face.
"Offenders are brazen in harming officers. We've been repeatedly saying for the last 2.5 years now, offenders have shot at or shot an officer at a 500% increase, the highest number of officers shot at or shot on record in Chicago," Brown said. "His team members are all shook, as well. It's obviously, the third time this week in Chicago an officer has been shot."
So far, this year, according to CPD data, 5 city officers have been shot while at least 22 were shot at.
Mayor Lori Lightfoot released a statement shortly after Brown's press conference, calling for gun control legislation.
"I must ask again, when is enough, enough?" Lightfoot said, in part. "How many times must I and my fellow mayors across the country plead with the Senate to take action and end the easy access to illegal guns? How many officers and residents must be victims of gun violence before we act?"
