Brother Saves Sister’s Life during Calumet City Robbery, Shooting
Sheroic Act Ends Tragically
Steven Cotner, 23, was shot during a robbery attempt at around 8 p.m. on Thursday evening in the 400 block of North Merrill Avenue near Harding Avenue.
A Sister’s Account
Steven and his sister, Allison, were making deliveries for a local pizzeria when a caller asked for a large pizza. But when they drove over to make the delivery, an ambush occurred.
“…Pistol whipped me in the head,” Allison recounted. “…And my brother hears me screaming, and he drops the pizza.”
Steven was the only brother in a family with five sisters and was always the protector.
A Fateful Night
Thursday night was no different. When Steven heard his sister scream, he ran to help and began tussling with one of the gunmen.
“He wanted to protect me. He seen blood coming down my face. I was telling him, ‘No, Steven. No, it’s not worth it,'” Allison stated. “…And then that’s when I heard two gunshots go off.”
Steven was shot in the upper body and died at the hospital.
Two Suspects on the Loose
Two suspects ran off and had yet to be apprehended as of Friday night.
Mother’s Plea
“He just wanted to protect us, and I wish I could have did the same to him yesterday,” Allison said.
The day following the shooting, family clutched the clothes Steven wore on his final delivery.
“I just want justice for him. I want them found, the person that did this,” said Steven’s mother, Martina Lohrbach. “I can’t bring my baby back.”
Investigation Ongoing
The case is being investigated by the South Suburban Major Crimes Task Force. Anyone with information is asked to call the Calumet City Police Department at 708-868-2500.
Conclusion
The tragic death of Steven Cotner is a sobering reminder of the dangers faced by our communities. As we reflect on this senseless act of violence, we pay tribute to the bravery of Steven, who gave his life to protect his sister.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Who is Steven Cotner?
A: Steven Cotner, 23, was a pizza delivery driver who was shot and killed during a robbery attempt.
Q: What happened during the robbery?
A: The robbery took place at around 8 p.m. on Thursday evening in the 400 block of North Merrill Avenue near Harding Avenue. Allison Cotner, Steven’s sister, was pistol-whipped and Steven was shot and killed.
Q: What is being done to catch the suspects?
A: The investigation is being conducted by the South Suburban Major Crimes Task Force, and the Calumet City Police Department is urging anyone with information to come forward.
