An Illinois police detective tragically lost his life on Friday in Oak Park, marking the first on-duty death in the village in 86 years. Detective Allan Reddins, 40, responded to a call regarding an armed man leaving a bank. This situation escalated into a deadly confrontation when the suspect opened fire.
Detective Reddins, who had been with the Oak Park Police Department since 2019, was shot on the left side of his body during the incident. Following the shooting, he was urgently moved to Loyola University Medical Center but was pronounced dead shortly after arrival.
The suspect, a 37-year-old man named Jerell Thomas, was arrested the following day and faces serious charges, including first-degree murder. Reddins’ death marks a somber moment for the Oak Park Police, as he is the first officer to die in the line of duty since 1938.
In a heartfelt statement, Police Chief Shatonya Johnson expressed the deep pain felt within the department and urged the community to keep them in their prayers. The tragic event occurred around 9 a.m. when Reddins and his fellow officers approached Thomas, who was leaving a Chase Bank, and ordered him to show his hands. In response, Thomas fired his weapon, striking Reddins.
In the exchange, Thomas was also shot in the leg as officers returned fire. He is currently hospitalized and remains in custody, listed in stable condition.
Law enforcement officials described Thomas as a habitual offender with a history of serious crimes, including aggravated battery against police officers, domestic battery, and resisting arrest. In honor of Detective Reddins, a procession was held along Interstate 290, with dozens of police and firefighters paying their respects as his body was transported to the medical examiner’s office.
The Oak Park Police Department expressed gratitude for the community’s support during this difficult time and announced plans for a public memorial to honor Detective Reddins. Thomas is facing additional charges, including attempted murder of a peace officer and unlawful possession of a firearm by a felon. The court date for these charges is yet to be determined due to his current hospitalization.
