Security officer shot inside emergency room at Evanston Hospital, suspect in custody, police say

EVANSTON, Ill. (WLS) -- A security officer was shot Thursday evening in the emergency room at Evanston Hospital.

An offender is in custody, but the Emergency Department was on lockdown, police and hospital officials said.

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The shooting happened around 7:57 p.m. at Evanston Hospital, located at 2650 Ridge Avenue in Evanston.

"While nurses were assisting with the intake process, the man became agitated, prompting hospital security to enter the room to provide support," police said. An armed offender allegedly lunged towards his belongings and "produced a weapon, which was discharged."

A security officer was shot, but they were believed to have non-life-threatening injuries, police said.

Earlier in the evening, the suspect, a 28-year-old male Evanston resident, was at a Taco Bell "suffering from an unknown mental health condition and agreed to be evaluated by paramedics before being voluntarily transported to Evanston Hospital," police said in a news release.

There is no current threat to the public, police said.

There was a large police presence in the area as authorities investigated.

Evanston Hospital shared the following statement:
"A shooting occurred in the emergency room at Evanston Hospital this evening. The individual was quickly apprehended and taken into custody. There is no active threat. The safety of our patients and team members is our top priority. The Emergency Department is on lockdown and bypass."

This is a breaking news report. Check back for updates.