(DailyChive.com) – Oak Park is in mourning after the tragic death of Detective Allan Reddins, a Chicago-area police officer who was killed on Friday while responding to an armed robbery near a local bank. The loss marks the first time the Oak Park Police Department has experienced an officer killed in the line of duty since 1938.
Detective Reddins, 40, had served with the department since 2019 and was highly regarded by his peers. Described as a “natural-born leader,” Reddins was known for his dedication to closing major cases and was on track for a promotion to sergeant. Tragically, his life was cut short when he and other officers confronted a suspect leaving a Chase Bank. According to Oak Park Police Chief Shatonya Johnson, officers ordered the man to show his hands, but he instead drew a gun and fired, hitting Reddins in the side.
The Oak Park Fire Department was called to the scene on Lake Street at 9:36 a.m. Medics rushed Reddins to Loyola University Medical Center in critical condition, but he succumbed to his injuries at 10:10 a.m.
The suspect, 37-year-old Jerell Thomas, was also shot during the encounter and is currently in stable condition. Thomas, who has a long criminal history, now faces charges of first-degree murder.
At a press conference, Chief Johnson expressed her deep sorrow, saying, “Our police department is hurting right now. I’m hurting. His family is hurting.” She also noted that Reddins was a devoted father to his 19-year-old son and a supportive son and brother to his family.
The Village of Oak Park released a statement offering condolences to Reddins’ loved ones and the wider law enforcement community. They described the killing as a “senseless act of violence.”
This tragic event serves as a painful reminder of the dangers police officers face daily. As the community grieves, Reddins is remembered for his courage, leadership, and unwavering commitment to justice.
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