FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
January 20, 2021
COPA PROVIDES UPDATE OF OFFICER INVOLVED SHOOTING NEAR 3800 W. POLK
On January 18, 2021 the Civilian Office of Police Accountability (COPA) received notification from the Chicago Police Department of an officer involved shooting near 3800 W. Polk Ave. COPA investigators arrived at the scene and immediately commenced an investigation.
Preliminary information indicates four (4) tactical officers initiated a traffic stop of a vehicle. Immediately upon stopping the vehicle, one of the passengers exited the vehicle and fled, prompting two officers to pursue the individual on foot. As the foot chase continued, officers commanded the individual to drop his gun. Shortly thereafter, the individual discharged a firearm in the direction of the officer, who then returned fire. An additional officer also discharged their weapon after noticing the individual still had their weapon raised and pointed at the officer. After approximately 5 minutes, the individual was located nearby and taken into custody without further incident. Three separate firearms were recovered from the scene.
COPA has obtained and reviewed body worn camera footage of the involved officers and third-party video which captured portions of the incident. COPA will continue to canvass the area for video and additional witnesses. Video and other materials including 911 calls, OEMC transmissions, Tactical Response and Incident Reports will be released within 60 days of the incident and in accordance with the City’s Video Release Policy.
COPA’s is committed to a full and thorough investigation into officers use of deadly force to determine if their actions were in accordance with Department policy and training.
If anyone has information regarding this incident or relevant video, please contact 312-743-COPA (2672) or email COPA-info@chicagocopa.org.
MEDIA CONTACT: Ephraim Eaddy – ephraim.eaddy@chicagocopa.org – 312-771-3718