FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
October 8, 2020
COPA RELEASES MATERIALS FROM OFFICER INVOLVED SHOOTING NEAR 3900 S. ARTESIAN AVENUE
Today, the Civilian Office of Police Accountability (COPA) released materials pertaining to an officer-involved shooting that took place on June 9, 2020 at the 3900 block of South Artesian Avenue.
Pursuant to a court order entered on July 31, 2020 in the case of People v. Chrishawn Thomas, the Civilian Office of Police Accountability was prohibited from releasing materials relative to this incident. The court order was rescinded on October 5, 2020 allowing for materials to be released including OEMC Transmissions, Case Incident, Tactical Response, and Arrest Reports which can be viewed by visiting www.chicagocopa.org/2020-2572.
During the incident, an off-duty Chicago Police Officer was approached by an individual now known to be Mr. Chrishawn Thomas, while the officer sat in his personal vehicle. Mr. Thomas allegedly attempted an armed robbery and/or carjacking of the off-duty officer. Gunfire was exchanged by both parties which led to Mr. Thomas fleeing the scene with another individual. The officer and Mr. Thomas both suffered gunshot wounds and have survived their injuries. Mr. Thomas was later arrested.
COPA’s investigation into the officer’s use of force is ongoing and we encourage members of the community who may have witnesses the incident or have additional information to contact COPA at (312) 746-3609 or visit chicagocopa.org for more information.
MEDIA CONTACT:
Jennifer Rottner
Director of Public Affairs
312-720-8560
jennifer.rottner@chicagocopa.org