Man Shot After He Points Fake Gun At Police
CHICAGO (STMW) - A man who ran from police who were conducting a gang and drug investigation on the South Side Saturday afternoon was shot by officers when he pointed a gun at them. The gun was determined to be a fake, police said.
Grand Crossing District tactical officers were on a directed mission Saturday afternoon in an area known for gang and drug activity in the vicinity of 71st and St. Lawrence, according to a statement from police News Affairs.
At approximately 2:55 p.m., officers saw a man exit an establishment near that location and flee on foot upon encountering police.
The officers pursued the man on foot, during which time the man drew a weapon from his waistband and jumped a fence, the statement said.
The officers announced their office and ordered him to drop the weapon. He then turned and pointed the weapon in the direction of the officers. In fear of their lives, officers fired at him, striking him. Police shot the suspect outside at 7048 S. St. Lawrence Ave., according to a Grand Crossing District police sergeant.
The man suffered a gunshot wound, possibly to the leg, and was in "stable" condition John H. Stroger Jr. Hospital of Cook County, according to Fire Media Affairs Chief Kevin MacGregor. He is in police custody at the hospital.
Police recovered drugs and a replica firearm from the man, according to police News Affairs. No officers were injured.
The Independent Police Review Authority and Calumet Area detectives are investigating.
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