The Champaign County Multi-Jurisdictional Investigative Team, led by the Illinois State Police, is conducting an investigation into an officer-involved shooting that occurred last night in Champaign.
Preliminary information reveals that at approximately 10:37 PM, a patrol officer with the Champaign Police Department initiated a traffic stop in the 400 Block of E. Washington St. During the attempted stop, the suspect vehicle fled from police and ultimately crashed into a residence in the 400 Block of E. Church St.
Upon the crash impact, the driver exited the vehicle and fled on foot. The officer pursued the subject in a foot chase across multiple residential properties before reaching a blocked-off area in the 300 Block of N. Fourth St. During the apprehension of the fleeing subject, the officer’s duty weapon was discharged and the subject was struck in the shoulder by a single gunshot wound.
The driver of the vehicle, a 22-year-old male from Champaign, was immediately transported to an area-hospital where he is being treated for a non-life-threatening injury.
“This is an unfortunate incident and details are currently limited,” shared Champaign Police Chief Anthony Cobb. “At this time, additional interviews and evidence needs to be collected, including having the benefit of processing the scene during daylight hours, before we can draw conclusions.”
Chief Cobb added, “We absolutely will be transparent with our public regarding this incident and we ask that community members allow the investigators time to sort through all available evidence first.”
Per policy, and as dictated by Illinois State Law, the Champaign County Multi-Jurisdictional Investigative Team is leading an independent investigation into the shooting. Police will issue regular updates as soon as new details become available and are verified.
Media Contact: LaEisha Meaderds | 217.403.6987 | [email protected]