A tragic incident unfolded on Saturday, April 25, 2026, when two Chicago Police Department (CPD) officers were shot while transporting a suspect to Endeavor Health Swedish Hospital. One officer was killed and another critically wounded after shots were fired during the transfer. The suspect is in custody, and authorities are continuing to investigate the circumstances surrounding the attack.
Details of the Incident
According to CPD Superintendent Larry Snelling, officers were transporting an individual to the hospital for observation before taking him to jail on a separate charge when the shooting occurred at approximately 10:45 a.m. local time.
“One officer was shot critically and was pronounced [dead],” Snelling said in a press conference. “The second officer right now is fighting for his life in the hospital. We ask that you keep the families of these officers in your prayers. This is a lot to go through.”
The deceased officer has been identified as John Bartholomew, 38, by the Cook County Medical Examiner’s Office, while the second officer, a 57-year-old with 21 years of service, is receiving treatment at Illinois Masonic Hospital.
The Suspect and Investigation
The suspect was taken into custody, and a weapon was recovered. According to Endeavor Health, the individual was “wanded upon arrival” at the hospital and was under constant law enforcement supervision, following the hospital’s public safety weapon detection protocols.
However, the suspect later fired shots at the officers and exited the hospital building. A manhunt ensued, and the suspect was located around noon. The hospital was placed on lockdown during the incident, but the lockdown was lifted by 2 p.m.. The hospital confirmed that no team members or patients were physically harmed during the event.
Public Response and City Impact
Chicago Mayor Brandon Johnson addressed the press after the incident, describing it as “a real difficult moment for our city.” He expressed the immense danger officers face daily, emphasizing that “Our officers stand in the way of harm every single day,” and that one officer will never return to his family.
The tragic event has deeply affected the city, highlighting the risks law enforcement officers face while performing their duties. The community, police department, and city officials are now focusing on supporting the families of the officers and ensuring justice for the tragic loss.
Summary Table of Key Information
| Aspect | Detail |
|---|---|
| Date of Incident | Saturday, April 25, 2026, around 10:45 a.m. local time |
| Location | Endeavor Health Swedish Hospital, Chicago, Illinois |
| Officers Involved | John Bartholomew, 38 (deceased); 57-year-old officer (critically injured) |
| Suspect’s Status | Apprehended and in custody |
| Weapons Involved | A weapon was recovered from the suspect |
| Lockdown | Endeavor Health placed on lockdown, lifted by 2 p.m. |
| Investigation | Ongoing investigation, suspect identified and taken into custody |
| Mayor’s Statement | Mayor Brandon Johnson expressed condolences, calling it a “difficult moment” for the city |
| Hospital Safety | No harm to patients or hospital staff during the incident |
The shooting at Endeavor Health Swedish Hospital in Chicago has resulted in the tragic death of Officer John Bartholomew and left a second officer in critical condition. This violent attack underscores the daily risks faced by law enforcement officers as they perform their duties to protect the community.
While the suspect has been apprehended and no patients or staff were harmed, the incident has deeply affected the city and highlighted the sacrifices police officers make each day.
As investigations continue, the focus now shifts to supporting the families of the officers and ensuring justice for this horrific act. The tragic loss of Officer Bartholomew reminds the public of the sacrifices made by law enforcement in the line of duty.
