A 26-year-old man has been charged in the fatal shooting of Chicago Police Officer John Bartholomew and the critical injury of another officer at Swedish Hospital. Alphanso Talley was charged with murder, attempted murder, aggravated kidnapping, and aggravated battery after allegedly shooting the officers while in police custody. The incident occurred Saturday when Talley, arrested for suspected robbery, was transported to the hospital for treatment. He allegedly fled the hospital after the shooting and was later apprehended. Officer Bartholomew, 38, a 10-year veteran, was pronounced dead shortly after the shooting. The second officer, a 57-year-old with 21 years of service, remains in critical condition.
Neighbor accounts and surveillance footage captured Talley running naked from the hospital, with electrodes still attached to his chest. Police recovered three weapons, though it remains unclear how Talley obtained a firearm despite being wanded upon arrival. The hospital confirmed he was escorted by law enforcement at all times. Community members expressed shock and fear, with some describing the SWAT team’s search as terrifying. A prayer vigil was held for the fallen officer, and blue ribbons and flowers were placed outside the officers’ district station.