OAK PARK, Ill. — A Chicago man described as a “habitual criminal” has been charged with first-degree murder in connection with Friday’s shooting death of a village police detective.
Jerell Thomas, 37, also faces charges of attempted murder of a peace officer, possession of a stolen firearm and unlawful use of a weapon by a felon. Authorities allege Thomas shot Det. Allan Reddins as the detective responded to a call about a person leaving a Chase bank location with a gun.
Reddins was shot on the left side of his body and passed away at Loyola University Medical Center. His death was the first of an on-duty officer in the community in 86 years.
Thomas remains at Loyola University Medical Center with a leg injury. No bond hearing has been set while Thomas is being treated at the hospital.
In releasing information about the charges, an Oak Park spokesperson described Thomas as a “habitual criminal” with a previous history of multiple arrests for aggravated battery to a police officer, domestic battery, battery and resisting a police officer.
Anyone with information on the case is asked to contact the Oak Park Police Department at 708-386-3800 or dial 911. Those with information that could help authorities in their investigation may also leave an anonymous tip online, or by calling 708-434-1636.
