UPDATE: Tragedy Strikes as Oak Park Police Officer Dies from Gunshot Wound
The Oak Park community is in mourning after the tragic death of 40-year-old Oak Park Police Detective Allan Reddins. The officer was shot and critically wounded while responding to a scene in the Chicago suburb on Friday morning. Despite the best efforts of medical personnel, Detective Reddins succumbed to his injuries and passed away at Loyola University Medical Center.
The news of Detective Reddins’ death has sent shockwaves through the community and the wider law enforcement community. The Village of Oak Park has extended its deepest condolences to Detective Reddins’ family, friends, and colleagues within the Oak Park Police Department. This senseless act of violence has left a void in the hearts of those who knew and worked with Detective Reddins.
According to a spokesperson for the village, the incident occurred just after 9:30 a.m. in the 800 block of Lake Street. Firefighters responded to a call of shots fired and found Detective Reddins with a gunshot wound to the left side. He was immediately rushed to the hospital, where he was listed in critical condition. Despite the best efforts of medical personnel, Detective Reddins could not be saved.
This tragic incident marks the first line-of-duty death for the Oak Park Police Department since 1938. The village has expressed its deep sorrow and has promised to support Detective Reddins’ family and colleagues during this difficult time. A press conference has been scheduled for 4:30 p.m. and will be streamed live for those who wish to pay their respects.
Authorities have revealed that the incident began when someone was seen leaving a bank in the area with a gun. This prompted Detective Reddins to respond to the scene. Details on what happened next and how the officer was shot have not been released yet. The person seen leaving the bank was also shot in the leg and is currently in custody and receiving treatment at an area hospital. It is unclear if the person was shot by police.
The bank in the area has posted a sign saying it is temporarily closed until further notice. A heavy police presence can be seen in the area where the incident took place. Witnesses have reported seeing a number of police cars arriving at the scene.
One witness, Natalie Young, shared her account of the incident with NBC Chicago. She said, “I was coming back from Target and parked outside on Oak Park Avenue in my car, and I saw police start showing up with their lights on surrounding the park. And then I was looking at my mirror because I could see that was unusual. I then saw a person in the park, who seemed to be trying to get away from the incident, run out onto Oak Park Avenue, and that’s when I knew something was wrong because there was lots of traffic. And then I opened my car door and I heard the gunshots.”
An investigation into the incident is ongoing, and authorities are urging anyone with information to come forward. The Oak Park Police Department is working tirelessly to bring justice for Detective Reddins and his family.
The loss of Detective Reddins has left a deep void in the Oak Park community. He was a dedicated and brave officer who put his life on the line to protect and serve his community. His sacrifice will never be forgotten, and his memory will live on in the hearts of those who knew him.
As we mourn the loss of Detective Reddins, let us also remember to honor and support our law enforcement officers who put their lives on the line every day to keep us safe. Our thoughts and prayers are with Detective Reddins’ family, friends, and colleagues during this difficult time. May his soul rest in peace.
