“I don’t care if someone decides to loot a Gucci or a Macy’s or a Nike store, because that makes sure that person eats,” Ariel Atkins, a BLM organizer, said. “That makes sure that person has clothes.”
At least 13 officers with the Chicago Police Department were injured as rioters charged through the so-called "Magnificent Mile" in downtown Chicago—and other parts of the Windy City—early Monday looting stores and throwing objects at officers.
Police said the officer was shot in the neck, chin, and his protective vest. Fragments from the bullet penetrated the officer’s esophagus, and he was placed in a medically induced coma on Thursday.
When they arrived on the scene, they encountered the suspect who was on the third floor and engaged police in a conversation. Superintendent David Brown said officers engaged in de-escalation tactics, but the man began firing down at the officers who were on the ground level.
Vincent Sessler now faces charges of Disorderly Conduct, Reckless Conduct, and Battery to a Peace Officer.
The officers with the Chicago Police Department were shot early Thursday morning by a carjacking suspect. The subject was also shot in the exchange, and two other officers were injured while attempting to take the man into custody.
The 30-year-veteran of the department shot himself to death early Tuesday at the West Side facility, according to police.
The move is a reversal from Lightfoot, who initially opposed taking down the statue on the grounds that it would erase the history of the Italian explorer.
Superintendent Brown said officers faced organized mob action “designed to provoke violent responses” during a protest that started peacefully but turned violent, leaving several officers and protesters injured.
At least 18 officers with the Chicago Police Department were injured as they responded to a protest that turned dangerously violent on Friday evening.