The suspect in the deadly shooting that left one Chicago police officer dead and a second critically injured at Endeavor Swedish Hospital on Saturday allegedly concealed the weapon under a blanket, prosecutors said.
As the suspect appeared in court on Monday at the Leighton Criminal Court Building, the families of the officers and elected officials gathered, demanding change.
“Our compassions must have limits, and I think when you know someone is abusing those compassions, it’s okay to say enough,” 15th Ward Ald. Raymond Lopez said.
Prosecutors said the weapon used to shoot the officers was brought in by the suspect, 26-year-old Alphanso Tally. He had allegedly been hiding the gun under a blanket.
Prosecutors said Tally pulled out the gun and opened fire moments before a CT scan.
“Because he told his arresting officer that he needed health service, one officer is dead and another is fighting for his life,” Lopez said.
Tally had been arrested earlier in the day after an armed robbery, according to a proffer read in court. He was already on pre-trial release.
Prosecutors said Tally told officers he had ingested narcotics and needed medical attention, prompting him to be taken to the hospital.
The 26-year-old faces two dozen charges, including first-degree murder, attempted murder, aggravated kidnapping and aggravated battery of a peace officer.
The shooting wasn’t Tally’s first encounter with law enforcement.
NBC 5 Investigates uncovered a lengthy rap sheet including robbery with a firearm, parole violations and a vehicular hijacking charge with a firearm. His criminal record has sparked debate over Illinois’ SAFE-T Act, which eliminated cash bail and set new rules about pre-trial release.
“We should not be here today, this is a consequence of a failed system,” Illinois Comptroller Susana Mendonza said.
Meanwhile, united in blue and braving the rain, members of the Chicago Police Department escorted the body of the fallen officer to a Park Ridge funeral home. The officer was identified as 38-year-old John Bartholomew.
Family members of Bartholomew and the officer fighting for his life continue to ask for prayers.
The injured officer suffered a gunshot wound to his face and was listed in critical condition.
The same injury almost cost then-officer Carlos Yanez his life in 2021.
“I know what they are going through, you just got to pray you know, you all prayed for me so please pray for the families,” Yanez said.
Funeral plans are still being arranged for Bartholomew.
