by Chicago, IL — A Chicago police officer survived a close call early Sunday after a bullet struck his protective vest during a shooting on the city’s South Side, leaving two others injured and prompting a major response from investigators.
Chicago Officer Survives After Bullet Hits Protective Vest in Morgan Park Shooting
The incident unfolded just before 1 a.m. in the Morgan Park neighborhood, where officers responded to a disturbance in the 11400-block of South Davol Street. According to the Chicago Police Department, officers found a group of people involved in an altercation, including two males, ages 35 and 18.
CPD officials said that as officers attempted to separate the individuals, “an offender’s gun went off, striking a victim and an officer’s protective vest.” The impact was powerful enough to send the officer to the hospital, though the vest prevented a potentially fatal injury.
How the Shooting Happened
Police reported that after the initial shot, another officer returned fire, hitting the 35-year-old offender. That round also accidentally struck the victim, as confirmed by CPD.
The 18-year-old was taken to the University of Chicago Medical Center in fair condition, while the 35-year-old offender was transported to Christ Hospital, also in fair condition and currently in police custody. Charges are pending.
The officer injured in the vest was treated at a local hospital and later released. Officials emphasized how close the situation came to tragedy. Alderman Matt O’Shea stated, “If not for the vest, we might be planning a funeral here.”
Officials Highlight Dangers Officers Face
Speaking near the crime scene, Ald. O’Shea described just how narrowly the officer escaped severe harm. He noted that the bullet’s impact point was “literally an inch away from the Chicago Police Memorial Foundation emblem” stitched into every vest.
He added, “When a vest stops a bullet, it stops the bullet but there’s still damage. There is still a blunt force impact on the chest.”
The Chicago Police Memorial Foundation has already offered to replace the officer’s damaged vest, a gesture O’Shea said underscores the dangers officers face even during routine calls.
Investigation Underway
As standard procedure in police-involved shootings, the officers present will be placed on desk duty for 30 days while the investigation continues. The CPD’s Investigative Response Team and the Civilian Office of Police Accountability (COPA) are reviewing the incident.
COPA urged the public to help, stating that “anyone with information should contact 312-746-3609 or visit the COPA website.”
Conclusion
Sunday’s incident highlights the increasing risks officers encounter during everyday responses and the importance of protective gear that can mean the difference between life and death. With two civilians injured and one officer narrowly spared, investigators are working to piece together the full circumstances behind the shooting.
Share Your Thoughts
Have incidents like this raised concerns in your community? What safety measures do you believe are most important for both officers and residents? Share your views in the comments below.
