Off-Duty Cook County Sheriff’s Officer Shot on Chicago’s Southwest Side
CHICAGO (WLS) – An off-duty Cook County Sheriff’s officer is in critical condition after being shot on the Southwest Side of Chicago on Wednesday night. The incident occurred in the 4700-block of West 47th Street near Midway Airport at approximately 8:52 p.m, according to Chicago police and fire officials.
The 37-year-old off-duty officer was struck by stray bullets while in traffic, causing injuries to the right elbow and lower back, police said. Reports suggest that the officer was not the intended target of the shooting.
Emergency responders rushed the injured officer to Mt. Sinai hospital, where he is currently listed in critical condition.
Investigators determined that the officer became caught in the crossfire between two vehicles exchanging gunfire while driving north on Cicero Avenue. The incident resulted in several collisions, with one of the offending vehicles hitting another vehicle traveling southbound, losing control, and crashing into the wall of a nearby business.
Eyewitnesses in the area reported hearing the gunfire and described the chaotic scene that followed. Veronica Carapia, a local resident, said, “Just gunshots going off. Next thing you know, my son looks out the window and he says ‘Oh, it’s a car crash, you know.’ Me and my neighbors came running out to see because it is very rare that happens and everything and was just in shock.”
Authorities apprehended a suspect after a short foot chase. The individual, whose identity has not been released, is reportedly in good condition and is currently in custody. There are no reports of any other injuries in connection with the incident.
The other vehicle involved in the shooting managed to escape the scene. Area One detectives have taken over the investigation to locate the fleeing vehicle. The presence of police pod cameras and a red light camera at the intersection where the incident occurred may assist authorities in tracking down the suspect vehicle.
The Cook County Sheriff’s Office has yet to provide an official statement regarding the incident.
Local residents expressed concerns about the impact of such violence on their community, particularly the safety of their children. Carapia remarked, “Nothing happened over here with us and the family and everything, but kids can’t come out and play no more because of it. Kids go in, go out, and got to keep an eye on them now.”
As investigations continue, ABC7 encourages residents to use the Interactive Safety Tracker, which helps monitor crime and safety levels in neighborhoods.
The case highlights the ongoing issue of gun violence in Chicago and the need for increased efforts to ensure the safety of all residents, including law enforcement officers who risk their lives to protect the community.