West Side shooting victim hit 7 times, relative says; UIC says ex-contractor involved

CHICAGO (WLS) -- Although Chicago police said they don't know about a double shooting allegedly connected to a former University of Illinois Chicago medical center contractor, ABC7 Chicago uncovered a shooting incident that appeared to match the description shared by the hospital system earlier this week.

UIC hospital officials said a now-former employee, Glenn Rhymes, was charged with bringing a gun into the facility Monday. They also say he is wanted for shooting two people at a home after being released from custody.

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The glass door at a West Side apartment building was shattered by gunfire, and windows on either side were gaping with bullet holes: evidence of the hail of gunfire aimed at two people Tuesday morning.

Melvin Miller and Linda Harmon were awakened by the gunshots.

"We were sleeping. So I hear the shots, and looked out the window, then grabbed her and went on the floor," Miller said.

According to Chicago police, the shots were fired by several suspects in a passing car.

The crime is consistent with a report by UIC police suggesting Rhymes may have been one of the gunmen.

Chicago police do not confirm the report. But, earlier Monday, Rhymes was arrested at UIC medical center, where he worked for Aramark, and charged with bringing a firearm into the hospital and threatening a patient with it, UI Health said.

An ABC7 Chicago police affairs consultant says UIC police acted properly by charging Rhymes with misdemeanors and releasing him.

"You make the arrest, recover the firearm. There's a background check because their criminal history plays into the charging," Bill Kushner said.

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A relative of one of the victims said a man was shot seven times, but is expected to survive. His girlfriend also shot, and has been released from the hospital.

"He's a good guy. He don't mess with nobody. He's a good guy," neighbor Linda Harmon said.

Rhymes and one of the shooting victims both worked for Aramark, which is a contractor with the medical center.

They have said they are cooperating with the investigation.

Chicago police said they have no pending charges against Rhymes at this time.

There was heightened security at UIC hospital Tuesday after the incidents.

It was not immediately clear if Rhymes is in custody.

UI Health previously said anyone who sees Rhymes should call UIC police at 312-355-5555 or call 911.

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