Introduction to the Incident
A suspect has been detained after leading police on a pursuit involving shots fired and multiple crashes on Chicago’s west side in a stolen Cicero Fire Department ambulance.
The Beginning of the Pursuit
It all started around 4 p.m. at Loretto Hospital, where a spokesperson for the Town of Cicero said three paramedics had transported a patient. According to authorities, one paramedic was inside the hospital, another was standing by the back door of the ambulance, and a third was still inside the ambulance. As a patient was being escorted out of the hospital by security, he allegedly jumped in the driver’s side and drove away with one paramedic still inside.
Paramedic’s Escape and Police Response
The paramedic was able to jump out of the ambulance about two blocks away, a town spokesperson said. Officials said one of the other paramedics who helped transport the patient immediately called 911, prompting a quick response from Chicago police officers.
Confrontation and Shots Fired
At the intersection of West Jackson Boulevard and South Central Avenue, Chicago police officers attempted to stop the suspect, who sources said rammed their squad cars while trying to escape. At some point during the encounter at that intersection shots were fired by an officer. Chicago police said no one struck by gunfire, however, a law enforcement source told WGN-TV a squad car and the ambulance were hit.
Continuation of the Pursuit
A short distance away, the suspect was allegedly involved in another crash at West Washington Boulevard and North Central Avenue. The pursuit continued before ultimately coming to a crashing end near Central and Chicago Avenue in the city’s Austin neighborhood. The ambulance appears to have rear-ended a gray four-door sedan and also struck a Chicago police vehicle.
Injuries and Aftermath
According to CPD, three officers were taken to area hospitals and are being treated for various, non-life threatening injuries. Four victims involved in the crashes with the suspect were taken to area hospitals with minor injuries. The suspect was not injured, but was taken to an area hospital to get checked out.
Investigation and Response
(Photo: SkyCam 9)
The Civilian Office of Police Accountability (COPA) said its officials are investigating an officer-involved shooting, located in the 300 block of South Central Avenue in Austin, where the incident originally started.
Statement from Loretto Hospital
Loretto Hospital issued the following statement on the incident: "We are aware of the stolen ambulance incident that occurred at Loretto Hospital this afternoon. The matter is under active investigation in coordination with law enforcement. At this time, no further details are available."
Conclusion
The incident involving a stolen ambulance and a police pursuit that resulted in shots fired and multiple crashes is a serious matter that highlights the risks faced by emergency responders and the community. The investigation into the incident is ongoing, and it is crucial that all parties involved cooperate fully to determine the facts and ensure that justice is served.
FAQs
- Q: What happened at Loretto Hospital?
A: A patient being escorted out of the hospital by security allegedly jumped into a Cicero Fire Department ambulance and drove away with one paramedic still inside. - Q: Were there any injuries during the pursuit?
A: Yes, three officers were taken to area hospitals with non-life threatening injuries, and four victims involved in the crashes had minor injuries. - Q: Is the suspect in custody?
A: Yes, the suspect has been detained. - Q: Is there an investigation into the officer-involved shooting?
A: Yes, the Civilian Office of Police Accountability (COPA) is investigating the incident.
